Mata was by far the standout player of the season, particularly from December onwards when he recorded four of his five season goals and all 13 of his assists for 2025/26 within an 18-game period.
The Spanish World Cup winner went viral on more than one occasion throughout the season, including two goals from outside the box in one Melbourne derby this February as well as a world class set piece free kick to secure a 2-2 draw against long-time rivals Sydney FC.
With Melbourne Victory failing to make the Grand Final after their elimination finals loss to Sydney FC, the 38-year-old has left his immediate future unclear, telling the media he'll be taking some time to consider whether to continue on in 2026-27 - be it in Melbourne, Australia or elsewhere in the world.
Now ex-Victory boss Arthur Diles and Victory captain Roderick Miranda pleaded for Mata to stay on for another season, with both saying he has plenty to offer and to personally gain from going around again.