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Juan Mata Leaves Melbourne Victory as Player but Keeps Playing Future Open

Posted : 11 September 2026

Juan Mata has decided not to continue as a player with Melbourne Victory for the 2026-27 season, but the 38-year-old has stopped short of announcing his retirement from professional football. The Spanish World Cup winner will remain connected to the A-League club through his ownership role.

Mata enjoyed an outstanding campaign after joining Victory in 2025, rediscovering his best form and earning the Johnny Warren Medal as the A-League's best player for the 2025-26 season. He made 25 league appearances, scoring five goals and providing 13 assists, underlining his influence during his only season in Melbourne.

The former Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder said he had thoroughly enjoyed his time in Australia and had developed a renewed love for football. However, he has now chosen to consider the next stage of his career rather than return for another season with Victory.

Mata will remain an important figure at the club after agreeing to become a shareholder earlier this year. He is also set to chair Melbourne Victory's newly established football committee, allowing him to contribute his experience and football knowledge away from the pitch.

Victory's football director John Didulica praised Mata's impact during his remarkable 2025-26 campaign and welcomed his continued involvement in the club's ownership structure and football leadership.

Mata joined Melbourne Victory after spending the previous season with Western Sydney Wanderers. Before moving to Australia, he enjoyed a decorated career that included winning the Champions League with Chelsea and being part of Spain's 2010 World Cup-winning squad.

Although his playing future remains uncertain, Mata is not stepping away from football altogether. He also has ownership interests in Alpine's Formula 1 team and Major League Soccer club San Diego FC, adding to his growing involvement in sports beyond playing.

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