Juan Mata has completed a move to Melbourne Victory in the A-League after his contract with Western Sydney Wanderers expired, with the Spaniard penning an emotional message to fans
Former Chelsea and Manchester United star Juan Mata has delivered a heartfelt farewell to Western Sydney Wanderers supporters following the expiration of his contract at the club. The 37-year-old reportedly turned down an extension with the club in order to join A-League rivals Melbourne Victory.
The Spanish international left Old Trafford three years ago and has since turned out for Galatasaray and Vissel Kobe in Japan before heading to Australia. Mata’s arrival in the North West represented a then-club record £37.1million transfer from Chelsea, where he went on to claim FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Europa League honours.
His time competing at the likes of Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge are a far cry from his current path, as the midfielder looks to put Melbourne Victory back on their perch in Australian football.
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Since leaving the Red Devils, his trophy-winning streak carried on in Turkey and Japan before making 23 appearances in his maiden campaign in Australia, netting once.
But his stint in Sydney has concluded after 12 months, prompting him to issue a message to the faithful: “Thank you very much to all the @wswanderersfc family: everyone who is part of the club, fans, RBB… You are such a special club and will never forget how you welcomed me and your support through the season.
“Your vision in using the power of football to positively impact society sets you apart and you will always have a friend in me.
“All the best for the future, thank you for this wonderful experience in Sydney and for having opened the A-League’s door to me. I’m really proud to have worn your shirt.”
However, his spell without a club was brief with his switch to Victory now confirmed.
The Melbourne outfit finished three points adrift of Mata’s previous side last season, as the Spaniard aims to steer them back to the top of Australia’s premier division for the first time since 2018.
Reports emerged last week suggesting Western Sydney were keen to keep hold of Mata’s services, but he turned down fresh terms to join a different club in the same competition.
“I am excited to be coming to Melbourne and to be part of one of the most respected clubs in the league and playing in front of the incredible members and fans,” said the former Premier League attacker.
“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.”