Juan Mata has made what could be the final transfer move of a storied career after joining his eighth professional club, this time making a move to AAMI Park to remain in the A-League.
Mata made 23 appearances for the Wanderers during the 2024/25 A-League season, scoring his first and only goal in a 3-2 loss to Macarthur Bulls on New Year's Day.
Ironically, his final game for Western Sydney was an 18-minute bench appearance during their 2-1 elimination final loss to his new club.
It's therefore assumed that he'll be at the forefront of Victory coach Arthur Diles' plans at least for the opening rounds of the 2025/26 season, which begins against last season's premiers Auckland FC at AAMI Park on October 18.
Mata has made nearly 700 professional appearances since joining Real Madrid's reserves team in 2006/07, appearing for Valencia 129 times and then playing a combined 278 games for Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United.
He has had a frustrating time during his twilight years since leaving Old Trafford, failing to establish himself at Galatasaray, J1 League club Vissel Kobe and finally the Wanderers.
"We are incredibly fortunate to add someone of Juan's experience and character to the squad," Melbourne Victory head coach Arthur Diles said on Tuesday morning.
"We are excited to welcome him into the changeroom, where we have no doubt his leadership and knowledge of the game will elevate the whole team.
“Juan's playing ambitions for this season and his long-term history of success with the game, align perfectly with the way we want to play for our chance to win trophies this season.”
Describing the Victory as "one of the most respected clubs in the league", Mata says he's "excited" to move to Melbourne.
"I am driven and motivated to help this team win trophies, and to work with the Club as part of a longer-term plan to strengthen football in the country.”
