Spanish football star Juan Mata has taken an ownership stake in Melbourne Victory, signaling a long-term commitment to Australian football. The 38-year-old, who is still considering whether to continue playing next season, has enjoyed a late-career resurgence and was recently voted Australia's A-League player of the year.
Commitment to Australian Football
Mata, known for his World Cup win with Spain in 2010 and his time at top English clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea, expressed his belief in the future of Australian football. "Australian football has a future I genuinely believe in," he said. "From the moment I arrived at Melbourne Victory, I've felt the passion of this club and the potential of the A-League, and I want to be part of building what comes next -- not just for a season, but for the long term."
Continued Involvement Post-Retirement
In addition to his playing career, Mata will take a minority stake in Victory and assume an off-field role once he decides to retire. "I have enjoyed so much this past season on the pitch, and committing to Victory as a shareholder is the natural next step," he added. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Global Sports Investments
Mata, who moved to Victory after a season with Western Sydney Wanderers, also has stakes in Formula One team Alpine and Major League Soccer club San Diego FC. Victory chairman John Dovaston praised the move, stating, "To have a player of Juan's calibre... take an ownership interest in Melbourne Victory is a significant moment for this club and for Australian football. Juan is a discerning investor with stakes in elite sporting franchises around the world, and his decision to back Victory reflects real confidence in where this club and the A-Leagues are heading."






























