Melbourne: World Cup winner Juan Mata is set for a second season in Australia aged 37 after joining Melbourne Victory on Tuesday. The former Manchester United, Chelsea, and Spain star moves from Western Sydney Wanderers, where he scored one goal and had three assists in 22 appearances.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mata expressed his commitment to helping his new team achieve success. "I am driven and motivated to help this team win trophies and to work with the club as part of a longer-term plan to strengthen football in the country," said Mata. The attacking midfielder signed a 12-month deal with A-League side Sydney last year after departing Japanese team Vissel Kobe.
Mata was mostly used off the bench last season. Despite limited starts, his experience and skill contributed significantly to the team's dynamics. Mata's illustrious career includes winning the World Cup with Spain in 2010 and becoming a European champion with his country two years later. Additionally, he claimed the Champions League title with Chelsea and the Europa League with both the London club and Manchester United.