Juan Mata begins a new chapter as the owner of the Melbourne Victory club

Juan Mata continues his association with Melbourne Victory even after retiring as a professional footballer. The Spanish 2010 world champion has acquired a minority stake in the Australian club and will become chairman of the new football committee after his playing career ends. This investment is not related to his current contract. Mata is still undecided on whether he will continue playing next season, but with this move he is committing himself to Melbourne Victory on a long-term basis.

"I truly believe in the future of Australian football. From the moment I arrived, I felt the passion of this club and the potential of the A-League. I want to help build the future, not just for one season, but for the long term," Mata said. According to Melbourne Victory, he became one of the few active international professional footballers to become the owner of his own club. The Spaniard has already invested in projects such as Formula 1 team BWT Alpine and MLS club San Diego FC, but this is the first investment in a club for which he still plays.

Club chairman John Dovaston described it as a significant moment for the club and the Australian league. “For a player of Juan’s caliber to choose to become an owner shows great confidence in Melbourne Victory and the future of the A-League.” Mata also had an excellent first season in Australia, scoring five goals and providing twelve assists to help Melbourne Victory into the finals series and was named both club and A-League Player of the Year.