Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images
Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images
Juan Mata’s future is up in the air after it was announced that his one-year stint as one of Melbourne Victory’s most experienced players is over.
On Friday, Melbourne Victory and Juan Mata announced that the 38-year-old will now ‘concentrate his expertise with the Australian outfit in his position in the club’s ownership group’.
The former Manchester United star will also become chair of the A-League side’s newly established football committee.
However, this doesn’t mean Mata has retired. It is understood that he is now back in Europe, weighing up his options.
Juan Mata celebrates with Melbourne Victory supporters.
Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
Juan Mata blocked from San Diego move in MLS
Mata released a statement after leaving Victory, but never mentioned retirement.
That means he could play for at least one more season before hanging up his boots.
“I loved every minute and so greatly enjoyed everything that we achieved last season, falling back in love with football at such a special place, in an amazing city that it was a privilege to call home,” Mata said.
“Thanks to my teammates, the staff and the Board for welcoming me so warmly, supporting me so generously, and allowing me to give my best for this wonderful Club and the amazing members and fans whose support I still feel every day.
“Now I am excited about our next chapters, believing together in the future of Australian football and inspiring the next generation of Melbourne Victory players and supporters.”
Whatever the next chapter holds, it’s unlikely to involve signing for an MLS club due to Mata’s unique connection to San Diego FC.
Mata can’t sign for San Diego FC because he joined the MLS club’s ownership group as a club partner in November 2024.
The partnership with San Diego saw the World Cup winner become the first active professional footballer to hold an ownership stake in MLS.
In turn, this blocks Mata from signing for a club that plays in the MLS, even San Diego FC. The rules state that a player cannot play for a club in which they hold an equity stake. He can’t play for another MLS club due to a conflict of interest.
⚡️ KEY TAKEAWAYS
Juan Mata no longer plays for Melbourne Victory
The former Manchester United midfielder is a free agent
Mata cannot sign for San Diego in the MLS
Ex-Man Utd players available as free agents
Mata becomes the latest former United player to become a free agent.
The list also consists of Paul Pogba, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia.
The former United trio all become free agents in the summer.
It remains to be seen how long they will be waiting to receive an attractive offer.