Juan Mata has jumped from one A-League club to another after signing for Melbourne Victory.
It has been three years since Juan Mata left Manchester United.
The Spanish midfielder, who spent eight years at Old Trafford, has since moved his career to Turkey, Japan and Australia.
While Mata won most of his trophies at Chelsea, the 37-year-old won three trophies as a United player, including the FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Europa League.
Mata won the award for United’s goal of the season in 2014/15 after a stunning strike against Liverpool at Anfield. He was a popular member of the dressing room and left having starred in the team as one of the most experienced players.
Fast forward to now, with Mata enjoying his football in Australia for the past year.
Juan Mata signs Melbourne Victory
Mata remains a favourite with many United fans; therefore, they will be keen to track his career since leaving Europe.
Despite having a contract offer to extend his stay at Western Sydney Warriors, Mata decided to join A-League rivals Melbourne Victory.
Mata made just seven starts for Western Sydney and says he has joined Victory wanting more playing time.
“I’m not somebody that demands game time for just the sake of it,” said Mata, as quoted by the BBC.
“I really felt the energy in the club. I really felt that they wanted me here. 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.”
Mata has had a decorated career, also winning the European Championship in 2012 with Spain, and Melbourne Victory will be looking to take advantage of that when the new A-League season begins.
Victory were runners-up last season.
Bruno Fernandes and Rio Ferdinand react to Mata’s latest move
Mata’s transfer to Melbourne Victory has dominated the headlines for the past week.
Although Mata had a contract offer from Western Sydney, his head had been turned by Victory.
The experienced playmaker took to Instagram to announce his latest transfer, which prompted responses from some of his former United teammates.
Bruno Fernandes tagged David de Gea in a comment, writing: “Our friend has some @d_degeaofficial goodies.”
Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand wrote: “Love it.”
Angel Gomes also commented with a clapping hands emoji.
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