Juan Mata Steps Back from Playing at Melbourne Victory

Juan Mata. Photo: Melbourne Victory

Spanish football star Juan Mata, who won the World Cup, announced on Friday that he will not play another season with Melbourne Victory in Australia. He did not say he is retiring.

The former player for Manchester United and Chelsea had a strong finish to his career. He was named the A-League player of the year for the 2025-26 season.

At 38 years old, Mata has decided to step away from playing while he thinks about his future plans. He will still be part of the club after buying a share in it.

"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."

In June, Mata announced he would take a minority stake in Victory. The details of the deal were not made public, but he will lead the club's new football committee.

"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," said John Didulica, the football director for Victory.

"Everyone at the club is excited that he is part of our ownership group and looks forward to his football knowledge guiding our football committee in the future."

Mata was part of Spain’s 2010 World Cup championship team and won the Champions League with Chelsea. He joined Melbourne Victory in 2025 after a season with Western Sydney Wanderers.

He is also an investor in the Formula One team Alpine and the Major League Soccer club San Diego FC.