Mata joins San Diego FC ownership group

Juan Mata has won 41 caps for Spain

Former Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of Major League Soccer expansion side San Diego FC.

Mata, 36, moved to A-League club Western Sydney Wanderers in September.

San Diego FC will enter the MLS in 2025 as the 30th team in the competition.

“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," said Mata.

San Diego said Mata is the "first active international soccer player to hold an ownership stake in Major League Soccer".

Mata won six major trophies during an 11-year spell in the Premier League with Chelsea and Manchester United, including the Champions League.

He helped Spain win the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012, but has not featured for his country since 2016.

San Diego chairman Sir Mohamed Mansour said Mata was a "serial winner" and believes he aligns with the club's ambition to "build a winning team for the long-term".