Juan Mata Wins Big at Melbourne Victory Awards After Stellar Season

Manchester United supporters still hold Juan Mata close to their hearts, and the Spaniard has now added another major achievement to his career away from Old Trafford.

The former United playmaker has enjoyed a resurgence in Australia this season, producing the kind of creative football that made him a fan favorite during his years in Manchester.

While United prepares for another important summer under Michael Carrick after sealing Champions League qualification, one of the club’s former stars is proving he still has plenty left in the tank on the other side of the world.

Juan Mata was the standout name at Melbourne Victory’s annual awards evening, where he collected multiple honors after an outstanding 2025/26 campaign, as announced on their website.

The Spanish midfielder received a huge reception before being awarded the Victory Medal, presented by Turkish Airlines, recognizing him as Melbourne Victory’s Player of the Season.

His influence across the campaign was impossible to ignore, with Mata registering 13 assists and 5 goals as Arthur Diles’ side enjoyed a strong Isuzu UTE A-League season.

The former Manchester United star also picked up the AGL Players’ Player award, showing the level of respect he earned from his teammates throughout the year.

One of the defining moments of his season came during February’s Melbourne Derby, where Mata scored a stunning long-range strike that later earned him the Sidelink Transport Goal of the Season award.

The midfielder enjoyed an impressive spell at Manchester United between 2014 and 2022 after arriving from Chelsea, making 273 appearances while scoring 51 goals and producing 47 assists across all competitions.

During his eight years at Old Trafford, Mata helped United win four major trophies, including the FA Cup and the Europa League, while becoming one of the most respected figures in the dressing room.

Following his United departure in 2022, Juan Mata went on to play for Galatasaray, Vissel Kobe, and Western Sydney Wanderers before joining Melbourne Victory in September 2025.

Away from football, Mata has also expanded his influence within the sport through ownership and investment projects.

Last year, Mercury13, an investment group backed by Mata and Giorgio Chiellini, added Bristol City Women to its growing portfolio.

Mata also became a partner in San Diego FC as he continues building his presence off the pitch.