Former Manchester United forward Juan Mata has continued his footballing journey in Australia after his contract with Western Syndey Wanderers expired
Juan Mata.
Former Manchester United forward Juan Mata completed a move to Melbourne Victory, aged 37.
(Image: Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)
Former Manchester United attacker Juan Mata has penned an emotional message to Western Syndey Wanderers fans after his contract expired at the club. The 37-year-old will not be hanging up his boots yet as he will remain in the A-League following his move to Melbourne Victory.
The Spain international departed Old Trafford three years ago and has since plied his trade for Galatasaray and Vissel Kobe in Japan before moving down under. Mata's move to the North West was a then-club record for United after a £37.1million from Chelsea, where he went on to pick up FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Europa League silverware.
His time picking up winners' medals continued in Turkey and Japan before making 23 appearances in his debut season, scoring one goal.
However his time in Sydney came to end after 12 months and in a statement to supporters, he said: "Thank you very much to all the @wswanderersfc family: everyone who is part of the club, fans, RBB… You are such a special club and will never forget how you welcomed me and your support through the season.
"Your vision in using the power of football to positively impact society sets you apart and you will always have a friend in me.
"All the best for the future, thank you for this wonderful experience in Sydney and for having opened the A-League's door to me. I’m really proud to have worn your shirt."
Content cannot be displayed without consent
However, his time without a club was shortlived with his move to Victory confirmed. The Melbourne club finished three points behind Mata's former team last season, as the Spaniard looks to guide them back to the summit of Australia's top-flight for the first time since 2018.
It was reported last week that Western Sydney wanted to retain Mata's services but he rejected a new deal to join a new club in the same league.
“I am excited to be coming to Melbourne and to be part of one of the most respected clubs in the league and playing in front of the incredible members and fans," said the former Man United attacker.
"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.”
Here at The Manchester Evening News, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.
Make sure you don't miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.
You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day's biggest stories.
And, finally, if you would rather listen to our expert analysis then make sure to check out our Manchester is Red podcast, featuring The Samuel Luckhurst Show and The Midweek Debate. Our shows are available on all podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and you can also watch along on YouTube.