Juan Mata believes Manchester United will qualify for next season 's Champions League despite facing stiff competition from the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal for a top four spot . The Spanish playmaker , in an exclusive Facebook fan Q & A session , has warned his team-mates that 'Manchester United must always play in the Champions League ' . United , who missed out on playing in this season 's Champions League after finishing seventh last season , are currently fourth in the Barclays Premier League but are just two points clear of fifth-placed Liverpool . Juan Mata has backed Manchester United to seal a spot in next season 's Champions League . The Spanish playmaker has been named on the substitutes ' bench for United 's last seven fixtures . United are currently fourth in the Premier League . Louis van Gaal 's side face a tense finish to the season but Mata has backed his side to have a positive end to the campaign . 'Manchester United must always play in the Champions League and we believe we ’ ll make it . ' Mata is hoping his side can get back to winning ways against Tottenham on Sunday following United 's FA Cup exit at the hands of Arsenal . He is also keen to reclaim a spot in Van Gaal 's first team plans after being named on the substitutes ' bench for United 's last seven fixtures . 'Hopefully it is going to be a good result for us , ' added Mata . ' I enjoy playing against Tottenham because I have had some good experiences against them ! ' I 'm working in the same way I have always done , with the same attitude and the same passion ! That ’ s all I can do , I 'm always optimistic and ready to contribute to the team at any time ! ' Louis van Gaal will be hoping his side can bounce back from Monday 's FA Cup defeat by Arsenal .
Juan Mata believes Manchester United will finish inside the top four . The Red Devils have won their last three games and are now just one point behind leaders Chelsea with five matches remaining.