Spanish footballer Juan Mata has decided not to play another season with Melbourne Victory, though he has not ruled out continuing his career elsewhere. The 38-year-old, a member of Spain’s 2010 World Cup-winning team, enjoyed a successful stint with the Australian A-League club, earning player of the year honors for the 2025-26 season. He will remain involved with the club as an owner and chair of a newly established football committee.
Mata opted against extending his playing contract with Melbourne Victory, stating, “I loved every minute and so greatly enjoyed everything that we achieved last season, falling back in love with football at such a special place, in an amazing city that it was a privilege to call home.” He indicated he is now considering “the next steps in his career.”
He joined Melbourne Victory in 2025 after a season with Western Sydney Wanderers. Prior to his time in Australia, Mata won the Champions League with Chelsea. He has also taken ownership stakes in Formula One team Alpine and Major League Soccer club San Diego FC.
John Didulica, Victory’s football director, praised Mata’s impact, saying, “Juan's 2025/26 season will live long in the memory of Victory fans and should be cherished by all supporters of the world's game here in Australia.” Didulica also expressed excitement about Mata’s continued involvement with the club, anticipating his “football intelligence leading our football committee.”
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