Melbourne Victory have secured their Juan Mata replacement, snapping up free agent Guillermo May ahead of the 2026/27 Isuzu UTE A-League season.
The 28-year-old Uruguayan attacker joins Victory’s squad ahead of the upcoming campaign following a trophy-laden stint at Auckland FC, where he won both the Premiership and the Championship during his two seasons in New Zealand.
The 28-year-old brings both goals and creativity to Giovanni Savarese’s side having bagged 16 goals and six assists in 58 appearances, making him the Black Knights all-time leading goalscorer in their short history in the competition.
TRANSFER CENTRE: Isuzu UTE A-League 2026-27 Transfer Centre: Your club’s moves
“I am very excited to be joining a team of Melbourne Victory’s status and want to be part of writing successful chapters in its great history,” May said after putting pen-to-paper on his contract.
“After having some great battles against the Club in recent seasons, it feels good to be on side with them and the supporters as we push for success in every competition.”
Capable of playing as the central striker or in more of an attacking midfield role, May brings versatility to a forward line that’s already reached the final of the 2026 Australia Cup and will be aiming for big things in season 2026/27.
“With his ability to operate anywhere across the attacking third, Guillermo adds an exciting dynamic to our attack,” Melbourne Victory Director of Football John Didulica said.
“He arrives with a reputation for scoring goals, a proven record of winning and, aged 28, is at the peak of his powers.
“He knows the league, its demands and has shown that he is capable of meeting these.
“We all look forward to seeing Guillermo add to an exciting squad built to compete on three fronts.”
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – MAY 02: Guillermo May of Auckland FC cheers to the crowd following the A-League Men Elimination Final match between Auckland FC and Melbourne City at Go Media Stadium, on May 02, 2026, in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)
The move to sign the former Auckland FC attacker comes after it was confirmed Spanish star Juan Mata wouldn’t be returning to the club this season.
The 38-year-old World Cup winner enjoyed a stunning individual campaign for Victory last season, registering 13 assists and five goals in 24 appearances to walk away with the Johnny Warren Medal by a record A-Leagues voting margin.
Victory will be aiming to start their Isuzu UTE A-League campaign with some silverware under their belts after reaching the Australia Cup final.
A 2-0 win over rivals Sydney FC saw them book their ticket to the decider, where they’ll now face one of South Melbourne FC or NPL QLD side Lions FC.
Following that game Victory will then kick off the 2026/27 A-Leagues season with an away trip to face Wellington Phoenix.
