Juan Mata becomes Melbourne Victory shareholder, set for post-retirement role

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By Adegboyega Adeleye

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Former Spain and Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has become a shareholder in Melbourne Victory, with the World Cup winner also set to take up a senior off-field role at the Australian club once he retires from professional football.

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The A-League club announced on Monday that Mata’s investment extends beyond his playing career, making him part of Melbourne Victory’s long-term plans after joining the club from Western Sydney Wanderers in September last year.

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The 38-year-old, who won the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Spain and enjoyed successful spells at Valencia, Chelsea and Manchester United, made 25 appearances for Victory during the 2025-26 campaign, scoring five goals and providing 13 assists.

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His impressive debut season also earned him the Johnny Warren Medal as the A-League Men’s Player of the Year, helping Melbourne Victory finish fourth with 40 points.

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Mata is still weighing up whether to continue playing next season, but the club confirmed he will chair a newly created football committee after retirement to support its football operations.

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“Australian football has a future I genuinely believe in,” Mata said.

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“From the moment I arrived at Melbourne Victory, I’ve felt the passion of this club and the potential of the A-Leagues, and I want to be part of building what comes next – not just for a season, but for the long term.

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“I have enjoyed so much this past season on the pitch and committing to Victory as a shareholder is the natural next step.”

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The investment adds to Mata’s growing business portfolio in football. He is already a part-owner of Major League Soccer expansion club San Diego FC and has also invested in Formula One outfit Alpine Racing.

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Mata’s professional career began in Spain before he established himself as one of Europe’s top midfielders, winning the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League with Chelsea, before lifting the FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League during his time at Manchester United.

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