Former Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata, a member of Spain’s 2010 World Cup-winning squad, has signed with Australian club Melbourne Victory.
The 37-year-old joins the A-League side from rivals Western Sydney Wanderers, where he spent the previous season.
Mata stated he is seeking more playing time, saying, “I’m not somebody that demands game time for just the sake of it. 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.”
The decorated midfielder has had a storied career, winning the Champions League, Europa League, and FA Cup with Chelsea, as well as the FA Cup, League Cup, and Europa League with Manchester United.
He also scored in the final of the 2012 European Championship, which Spain won 4-0 against Italy. Mata’s career has also included stints at Galatasaray and Vissel Kobe before his move to Australia.
Melbourne Victory finished as runners-up last season and will begin their new campaign at home against Auckland FC on October 18.
