Spanish footballer Juan Mata has been revealed as an investor in new Major League Soccer club San Diego FC.
The Western Sydney Wanderers midfielder comes on board as a Partner and Minority Owner of the club. He will also work with the “Right to Dream” community initiative and provide his “experience and passion for the game and working alongside everyone here to build a club that inspires both on and off the pitch.”
The former Manchester United and Chelsea player becomes the first active player to acquire a stake in an MLS side and the second non-US player to do so after David Beckham.
San Diego FC will begin their journey with the 2025 MLS season, which is scheduled to kick off in March next year.
Speaking about his investment, Mata commented:
“Really happy to announce that I’m a partner at the newest and most special franchise in the MLS, San Diego FC. Many thanks to the ownership group, Right to Dream and the MLS for allowing me to be the first active player to be a part owner of a club in the league, and the second ever after David Beckham. It’s truly an honour. It’s needless to say that the Right to Dream approach to our beloved sport is unique, bringing purpose at the core of everything they do, and I’m really happy to continue my journey using football as a social tool for change together with the Right to Dream community and Common Goal. I see this step as an opportunity to help build something really special in a city and a league that are experiencing incredible growth, and I cannot wait to be involved and commit to the positive social impact that aligns with the club’s and my personal vision of the beautiful game.“
Tom Penn, CEO, San Diego FC, added:
“Juan’s addition to SDFC’s ownership group brings a global perspective and a commitment to positive social impact that perfectly aligns with our club’s mission. As a World Cup champion, Champions League winner, and a leader both on and off the field, Juan embodies excellence and purpose in everything he does. His passion for using football as a force for good resonates deeply with our vision for our SDFC and our community, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome him to our club.”
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