By Adegboyega Adeleye
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.
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.
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.
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.
