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WHAT HAPPENED?
The 36-year-old Spanish playmaker has signed with Western Sydney Wanderers after leaving Japanese club Vissel Kobe, where he made just one appearance during his brief spell. Mata’s departure from Vissel Kobe in January 2024 came after a largely uneventful stint in Japan. The veteran midfielder joined the J1 League side in 2023, but injuries and form limited him to a single appearance for the club.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Following his exit from Vissel Kobe, Mata was seen training with Danish side FC Nordsjaelland over the summer. While many speculated that he might join the Danish club, Mata took his time evaluating his options before making the unexpected decision to head Down Under for a fresh challenge in the Australian A-League.
WHAT MATA SAID
In his first statement after signing with Western Sydney Wanderers, Mata said, “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. I’m feeling grateful and excited for this new adventure, and looking forward to trying to win another Championship in a different league!”
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WHAT NEXT FOR MATA?
However, signing high-profile international stars hasn’t always guaranteed success in the A-League. While Alessandro Del Piero’s move to Sydney FC in 2012 remains an exception, the likes of Daniel Sturridge, and Keisuke Honda all arrived with high expectations but found it difficult to replicate their European success in the A-League. It remains to be seen if Mata can make an impact and guide the Wanderers to A-League and AFC Champions League success.
