Juan Mata has joined a new club but is remaining in Australia.
The ever-popular former Manchester United midfielder, who left Old Trafford in 2022, has transferred from Western Sydney Wanderers to Melbourne Victory.
By moving within the A-League, he will continue his adventure Down Under and, at the age of 37, remains enthusiastic about extending his glittering playing career.
Spells in Turkey (with Galatasaray) and Japan (at Vissel Kobe) highlight how he has embraced fresh challenges around the globe since departing the Premier League, where he will always be remembered as an outstanding technical talent.
“I'm not somebody that demands game-time for just the sake of it,”
he said.
“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. 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.
“Thank you very much to all the Western Sydney Wanderers family.
”You are such a special club and [I] will never forget how you welcomed me and your support throughout the season.“
The World Cup winner was back in Manchester over the summer to launch the 'Football City, Art United' exhibition and spoke to us about how the area still feels like home to him, despite his globetrotting escapades.
Everyone at United would like to wish Juan the very best of luck with Victory and we hope to see him again soon.