November 22 – Former Manchester United, Chelsea, and Spain star, Juan Mata has announced that he’ll be joining the investment group behind Major League Soccer’s (MLS) newest franchise, San Diego FC, as a part owner.
Mata, who currently plays for Western Sydney Wanderers in Australia’s A-League, is the first active player to become a partner in a US franchise. San Diego were awarded the expansion slot in May 2023 for the rumoured price tag of $500 million. The size and value of Mata’s minority stake has not been disclosed.
San Diego are owned by the British-Egyptian billionaire and former Conservative Party donor and treasurer Mohamed Mansour and by a Californian Native American tribe, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation.
The 36-year-old, Mata, still has his eye on playing in MLS, and with the team beginning play in the Western Conference in 2025 it remains a strong possibility that Mata could become a player/owner, which could leave some tricky decision-making for Mikey Varas, the recently named head coach.
When it comes to players having a financial interest in clubs, the Mata situation is highly unique and may require some manipulating. The only previous time a player has had an interest in an MLS club was, former England captain, David Beckham, when he played for the LA Galaxy. Beckham was given the rights to purchase a franchise written into his contract, however, he didn’t enforce the deal until he officially retired.
Mata, who heads up the Common Goal charity is well known in football circles as a benefactor of worthy causes. His step into the unfamiliar world of franchise football will be interesting.
“Joining San Diego FC as a partner is an exciting opportunity to help build something truly special in a city and league that are experiencing incredible growth. The commitment of both this Club and Right to Dream to community impact, excellence, and a vision for long-term success aligns perfectly with my own values. I look forward to contributing my experience and passion for the game and working alongside everyone here to build a Club that inspires both on and off the pitch,” said Mata.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1734907970labto1734907970ofdlr1734907970owedi1734907970sni@o1734907970fni1734907970