Juan Mata unsure where he'll play next season

The Spanish World Cup winner has shone brightly in the tournament during his second year in Australia, with 13 assists, many coming in the latter part of the season, placing him second in single-season A-League assists behind the now-retired Australian midfielder Aaron Mooy, who had 21 in 2015/16.

Mata transferred from Western Sydney to Melbourne Victory ahead of the 2025/26 campaign after manager Arthur Diles promised him a key starting role as central midfielder, following some short and unproductive substitute appearances at his previous team, the Western Sydney Wanderers.

The 38-year-old has rewarded Diles with five goals and 13 assists, plus remarkable stamina that matches a much younger athlete.

Speaking to AAP on Friday, Mata revealed he has not yet considered his plans past the Victorys finals run, which kicks off this Saturday in an elimination match against Sydney FC at AAMI Park.

"To be honest, I haven't put my mind into (contract discussions)," Mata said.

"I want to finish the finals, hopefully it will go well for us, and then take some time to decide with myself, with my family, and weigh everything up.

"What I can say is that up until now, I have enjoyed this season. I have enjoyed on the pitch, off the pitch, in the training ground, the culture and the environment in the club. So I haven't made a decision yet. I will do it after."

Mata has frequently completed the full 90 minutes with strong vitality, and only five other Victory players, including three defenders, have logged more time than his 1,691 minutes this term.

This holds true even with a few substitute roles at the seasons start and two weeks sidelined by an elbow fracture just before the playoffs.

He mentioned he has not contemplated retiring as an Australian championship winner.

"I mean, I'm dreaming now, but if we go through and then we win the whole thing, it's gonna be an amazing feeling," Mata said.

"I don't know how I'll feel there in terms of keep going, or is it very nice and the ... I don't really know.

"I will make a decision after and I don't want to make it straight after the elimination or the final. I want to take some time and then see how much I enjoy playing football. That's the main thing. And then the rest can come after."

Mata has frequently praised the Melbourne way of life over his time in Victoria, highlighting its vibrant sports and arts offerings alongside its diverse culinary and beverage scene, and he remains receptive to staying in Australia after his playing days, perhaps even investing in the Victory to boost funding for Australian soccer.

"Yeah, it's something that I'm still open to do, to have conversations," he told AAP.

"And yeah, why not? If I believe in something, I think it's nice to be involved somehow in it, if you can provide something or you can bring something different to the table.

"So I'm open to it."