Juan Mata Ends Melbourne Victory Playing Career, Takes Up Ownership and Football Committee Role

Juan Mata has ended his playing career at Melbourne Victory after a standout debut A-League season, but has stopped short of formally retiring from professional football, choosing instead to weigh up his next steps from his home in Europe.

The 38-year-old will not return for the 2026-27 A-League Men campaign, with Victory confirming his on-pitch commitments have concluded. Mata's involvement with the club will continue off the field, however, through the ownership stake he acquired earlier this year and a new role as chair of Victory's football committee. "I loved every minute and thoroughly enjoyed everything we achieved last season," Mata said. "I rediscovered my love for football in such a special place, in a wonderful city that I was honoured to call home."

The Spanish World Cup and Champions League winner produced one of the most impressive individual seasons in A-League history after joining from Western Sydney Wanderers, contributing five goals and 13 assists to earn the Johnny Warren Medal as the league's best player. "Juan's 2025-26 season will live long in the memory of Victory fans," said director of football John Didulica. "Everyone at the club is excited that he is part of our ownership group and, in the future, looks forward to his football intelligence leading our football committee." Victory, now under new head coach Giovanni Savarese, remain unbeaten as they prepare for the Australia Cup final.