Melbourne Victory have confirmed star midfielder Juan Mata will undergo surgery after fracturing his elbow during Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Wellington Phoenix.
Mata sustained the injury during the first half of Sunday’s 1-0 defeat at AAMI Park but was able to play on until the 88th minute when he was substituted.
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However scans on Sunday evening confirmed the extent of the World Cup winner’s injury, with further surgical consultations indicating surgery was required.
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“It is disappointing to be without Juan through injury,” said Melbourne Victory Head Coach Arthur Diles.
“But our priority as Melbourne Victory is supporting his recovery in every way we can. We remain hopeful of him rejoining the team during the 2025-26 season.”
Mata has been one of the stand-out players in the Isuzu UTE A-League this season since joining Victory from the Western Sydney Wanderers.
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Chalking up five goals and 13 assists this season from 23 matches, Mata’s performances have helped Victory into fourth place on the ladder and on course to seal a spot in this year’s Finals Series.
The Spanish World Cup winner currently sits top of the Opta charts when it comes to assists (13) and chances created (85), whilst he also ranks second for expected assists (xA) with 6.5 and his performances have seen him voted Shark Fan Player of the Month twice this season.
