Spanish star Juan Mata takes stake in Melbourne Victory

The former Manchester United and Chelsea ace, 38, is enjoying a late-career resurgence and was voted Australia’s A-League player of the year last month.

He is still mulling whether to play on, but in a major commitment said he would take a minority stake in Victory and an off-field role once he decides to retire.

“Australian football has a future I genuinely believe in,” Mata said.

“From the moment I arrived at Melbourne Victory, I’ve felt the passion of this club and the potential of the A-League, and I want to be part of building what comes next — not just for a season, but for the long term.

“I have enjoyed so much this past season on the pitch, and committing to Victory as a shareholder is the natural next step.”

The terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Mata, who played in Spain’s 2010 World Cup-winning campaign and won the Champions League with Chelsea, moved to Victory after a season with Western Sydney Wanderers last year.

He also has stakes in Formula One team Alpine and Major League Soccer club San Diego FC.

“To have a player of Juan’s calibre… take an ownership interest in Melbourne Victory is a significant moment for this club and for Australian football,” Victory chairman John Dovaston said.

“Juan is a discerning investor with stakes in elite sporting franchises around the world, and his decision to back Victory reflects real confidence in where this club and the A-Leagues are heading.”