Manchester United and Chelsea hero Juan Mata speaks out on motivation behind surprise move

09/06/2024 12:26 PM

Juan Mata says he has ‘longed to live’ in Australia after completing a surprise move to A-League side Western Sydney Wanderers.

The 36-year-old left Manchester United in 2022 and has since played for Galatasaray, had a very short stint in Japan with Vissel Kobe and is now heading Down Under.

The World Cup, Champions League and European Championship winner says he has always fancied moving to Australia and can’t wait to have a crack at another league.

‘I'm feeling, again, very thankful to football for the many experiences and joy that keeps bringing to my life,’ Mata wrote on Instagram. ‘Today, a new adventure is starting, and I'm super excited about it! I will keep enjoying this amazing sport by playing not only in a different country… but in a different continent: AUSTRALIA, HERE I GO!

‘I have always been amazed with your country and longed to live there… Now, I will do it in the beautiful city of Sydney. I'm joining @wswanderersfc , the only Australian team to ever win the Asian Champions League, and I cannot wait to arrive and train with the team to prepare for the season ahead.

‘Feeling grateful and excited for this new adventure, and looking forward to trying to win another championship in a different league! 🙏 Let's go Western Sydney Wanderers, I'm one of you 🖤❤️

‘Ps: Friends & Family, if you are thinking about visiting, please plan in advance this time.’

The veteran added to club media: ‘I'm really excited to join the Western Sydney Wanderers, the only Australian team to ever win the Asian Champions League, and I cannot wait to arrive and train with the team to prepare for the season ahead," said Mata.

‘I'm feeling grateful and excited for this new adventure, and looking forward to trying to win another Championship in a different league!’

Mata never won a league title in Europe, at Valencia, Manchester United or Chelsea, but has since been on a run of success.

His one season in Türkiye yielded a Super Lig title with Galatasaray, while despite playing just one game for Vissel Kobe, he got a medal for winning the J1 League.

Western Sydney Wanderers head coach Alen Stajcic said: ‘The addition of Juan to our club and team is priceless.

‘He is one of the most respected, gifted and awarded players of a generation and brings not only football talent and success rarely seen in Australian club football, but also a humility to share his experiences and insights.

‘Juan will help our team perform "on the field" but even more critically, he will be an important figure in turbo charging the growth and development of our youthful squad.

‘It's a great day for our football club and I am sure all Wanderers fans will be excited to see what this team can deliver now.’

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