Juan Mata to retire from Melbourne Victory playing career

Juan Mata has announced he will conclude his playing career with Melbourne Victory to focus on his roles within the club’s ownership group and as Chair of the newly established football committee.

The 38-year-old Spanish midfielder joined the A-League side in September 2025, delivering a highly decorated single season. During the 2025/26 campaign, Mata won the Johnny Warren Medal as the league’s best player, recorded 13 assists and five goals, and helped the club qualify for the Finals Series.

Mata expressed gratitude to the club, teammates, and fans, stating he fell “back in love with football at such a special place.” While he departs the pitch, he will remain a stakeholder in the club and will transition into a leadership role overseeing football intelligence and development.