Juan Mata Leaves Melbourne Victory Squad but Takes Club Chair Role
Juan Mata will not play for Melbourne Victory in the 2026-27 A-League Men season, with the 38-year-old set to consider his next move from Europe while stopping short of announcing retirement.
Mata remains part of Victory’s future
The former Spain international is leaving Victory’s playing group but not the club. He will retain an ownership interest and has been named chair of the newly created football committee.
Mata thanked the club after a standout season in Melbourne, saying the experience had helped him rediscover his love for the game. He praised his team-mates, staff, board, members and supporters for their welcome and backing throughout the campaign.
He also said he was looking forward to helping shape the next stage of Victory and Australian football, with an emphasis on inspiring younger players and fans.
A season that ended with the Johnny Warren Medal
Mata’s final campaign at Victory brought five goals and 13 assists, earning him the Johnny Warren Medal after his influential work under former coach Arthur Diles.
| Juan Mata at Victory, 2025-26 | Total |
|---|---|
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 13 |
| Individual award | Johnny Warren Medal |
Victory director of football John Didulica said Mata’s contribution would remain memorable for the club’s supporters and the wider Australian game. He highlighted both the midfielder’s performances and his conduct around the club, while welcoming his continuing role within the ownership group and football committee.
How the transition unfolded
- Mata completed a productive 2025-26 season with five goals and 13 assists.
- His displays earned the Johnny Warren Medal.
- Victory confirmed he will not return as a player for 2026-27.
- The Spaniard will remain involved as an owner and chair of the football committee.
- Victory will use the vacant visa place to pursue a foreign forward.
Savarese prepares for Cup final test
Victory are now under new head coach Giovanni Savarese, who remains unbeaten since taking charge. His side reached the Australia Cup final by beating Sydney FC on Wednesday night.
The final opponent will be decided by the other semi-final between South Melbourne and Lions FC. Away from the cup run, Victory’s recruitment staff are working on bringing in an overseas striker to occupy the final visa position opened by Mata’s departure.
Key takeaways
- Mata has not formally retired and will evaluate his options from a European base.
- He stays connected to Melbourne Victory through an ownership stake and committee role.
- Victory must replace both his attacking output and his final foreign-player place.
- Savarese heads into the Australia Cup final unbeaten as Victory coach.
