Former Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata is proving that class is permanent in the A-League with a stunning free-kick for Melbourne Victory against Sydney FC.
Juan Mata left Manchester United in 2022 after spending eight years at Old Trafford.
Although it could be argued that United didn’t get the best out of the former Spain international, who won the Premier League and Champions League at Chelsea, Mata will be remembered as a fans’ favourite from his time at the club.
The 37-year-old has been rolling back the years with his performances for Melbourne Victory, despite struggling to have an impact at Western Sydney Wanderers during his first stint in the A-League last season.
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Juan Mata celebrates with Melbourne Victory teammates
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Bruno Fernandes celebrates Juan Mata’s stunning free kick against Sydney FC
Melbourne Victory did not get the result they wanted against Sydney FC, despite taking a 2-0 lead in the 69th minute.
Mata scored a stunning 34th-minute free kick to open the scoring before Charles Nduka came off the bench to double the lead.
The goal Mata scored was executed wonderfully as he curled his effort past a helpless goalkeeper.
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Meanwhile, at Carrington, Bruno Fernandes recorded the goal live and uploaded his reaction immediately to Instagram stories.
Fernandes can be heard saying: “Knew it. The trust I have in this guy, filming live.”
Fellow United star Harry Maguire was also happy to see Mata score from the set piece.
Of course, it’s not the first time Fernandes celebrated Mata’s heroics in Australia.
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Juan Mata’s growing goal contributions tally
Mata’s goal against Sydney FC was his 14th goal contribution of the season.
The Spaniard has scored four goals and registered 10 assists for Melbourne Victory.
If Mata can finish the season strongly, Victory have every chance of making the play-offs.
Victory are currently fifth in the A-League standings after playing 20 matches. Mata has started in 18 of those matches.
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