Spanish World Cup winner Juan Mata has decided not to play another season with Melbourne Victory, although the veteran midfielder has stopped short of announcing his retirement from professional football.
The 38-year-old enjoyed an impressive late-career resurgence in Australia and was named the A-League Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season.
However, Mata will not continue playing for Victory as he considers the next stage of his career. He will remain closely involved with the club after acquiring a minority ownership stake.
“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,” Mata said.
“Now I am excited about our next chapters, believing together in the future of Australian football and inspiring the next generation of Melbourne Victory players and supporters.”
Mata announced in June that he would become a minority owner of Melbourne Victory. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed, but the former Manchester United and Chelsea midfielder will serve as chair of the club’s newly established football committee.
Victory football director John Didulica praised Mata’s impact both on and off the pitch.
“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 said.
“Everyone at the club is excited that he is part of our ownership group and, in the future, looks forward to his football intelligence leading our football committee.”
Mata joined Melbourne Victory in 2025 after spending a season with Western Sydney Wanderers.
The Spaniard was part of his country’s 2010 World Cup-winning squad and enjoyed a highly successful club career in Europe, including winning the Champions League with Chelsea.
His business interests have also expanded beyond Melbourne Victory, with Mata holding stakes in Formula One team Alpine and Major League Soccer club San Diego FC.
While his playing days at Melbourne Victory are over, Mata has yet to confirm whether his professional career has reached its conclusion.
