Mata, now with Melbourne Victory in Australia, was speaking on talkSPORT when the message from Terry was played.
The former Blues captain stated: "I just wanted to say a big hello to the little maestro and the guy that helped us win the Champions League in 2012.
"The man who took the corner that set up Didier’s goal, the header. I actually have a picture of that exact corner in my office thanks to this man and the trophy.
"What an amazing, amazing player, top, top player. More importantly, above all of that, a great man as well and a great person to have around as well.
"Always what I loved about Juan is in really difficult situations, he’d always see the best in a really tough situation.
"He always had a really mature head on young shoulders and I think people like him and Cesc Fabregas, they see the game in a completely different way to other people because they’re special, special talents.
"I think he’s going to be a top manager or a top coach if he goes into that space post-retirement.
"Juan, I hope you’re well mate. I love you, I miss you and I hope to see you soon."