Former Manchester United and Chelsea star Juan Mata has confirmed he will not return to Melbourne Victory for the 2026-27 A-League Men season. While the veteran playmaker is stepping away from the pitch in Australia, he has notably stopped short of announcing his formal retirement from professional football.
Juan Mata has completed a formal agreement to purchase a minority stake in A-League giants Melbourne Victory, further cementing his ties to Australian football. The deal also sees the ex-Man Utd star appointed as the chair of a newly established football committee, though he is yet to confirm if he will hang up his boots for good.
Manchester United stars Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire were seen celebrating wildly at the club's Carrington training base after watching former team-mate Juan Mata roll back the years. The veteran Spaniard, who remains a beloved figure among the Old Trafford faithful and his former colleagues, produced a moment of magic while playing for Melbourne Victory in Australia.
Former Manchester United and Chelsea star Juan Mata turned back the clock with a sensational free-kick for Melbourne Victory on Saturday. Despite the Spaniard's individual brilliance, a late collapse saw his side surrender a two-goal lead in a frantic A-League encounter.
Former Manchester United and Chelsea star Juan Mata rolled back the years by scoring an eye-catching brace for Melbourne Victory in a 3-1 derby win over Melbourne City on Saturday. The goals even drew praise from Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes who took to social media to show his appreciation for the 37-year-old's excellent efforts in the A-League clash.
Melbourne Victory
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