Mata was by far the standout player of the season, particularly from December onwards when he recorded four of his five season goals and all 13 of his assists for 2025/26 within an 18-game period.
The Spanish World Cup winner went viral on more than one occasion throughout the season, including two goals from outside the box in one Melbourne derby this February as well as a world class set piece free kick to secure a 2-2 draw against long-time rivals Sydney FC.
With Melbourne Victory failing to make the Grand Final after their elimination finals loss to Sydney FC, the 38-year-old has left his immediate future unclear, telling the media he'll be taking some time to consider whether to continue on in 2026-27 - be it in Melbourne, Australia or elsewhere in the world.
Now ex-Victory boss Arthur Diles and Victory captain Roderick Miranda pleaded for Mata to stay on for another season, with both saying he has plenty to offer and to personally gain from going around again.
“I felt that Victory was the right place to for me to go and play my football,” Mata said when accepting the award.
“When I enjoy playing football I think I can play at my best level, and every week I was looking forward to games and training. and that tells you something about it.
“I knew I still had football in me, and if I found a place to play where I had the trust of the coach and felt at home at the club, then I knew I could perform and that’s what happened.
“I was not trying to prove a point to anybody, I’m just more happy that I’ve been able to show to myself that I was right about having football still in my legs and in my head.
“I’m really grateful and honoured to get this award. I know the importance of it, the history of it, and the players that have won it before.”
The central midfielder also hinted that he is considering the potential of retirement whilst still producing the kind of mesmerising football that has taken the A-League by storm.
“I will have some time now to think, relax, and see where my head and my feelings are,” Mata explained.
“It’s nice to keep playing when you are enjoying it and performing, but it’s also maybe a good time to stop when things are going well, so I don’t really know.
“I will make a decision a bit later down the line. The club has been very understanding and they showed their willingness for me to stay, and I really appreciate that.”
