Footballer Juan Mata Scores With MBE

The Spanish professional footballer and founder of the network Common Goal, Juan Mata received an Honorary MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) today at the Madrid Residence of the British Ambassador to Spain, Sir Alex Ellis. Mr Mata was included in His Majesty King Charles III’s 2023 list of Honorary Awards to foreign nationals for his services to sport and charity. 

 Having played the majority of his career in the UK, Juan Mata has become one of the world’s most successful professional footballers. During his club career, he won the FA Cup and the UEFA Europa League twice, with both Chelsea and Manchester United, as well as the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea in 2012. He has also enjoyed great success with the Spanish national team, winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship in 2012. 

 Mr Mata’s success has reached far beyond the football pitch. In 2017, he co-founded Common Goal to form a lasting connection between football as a business and football as a tool for social change. Common Goal asks its members to pledge 1% of their earnings to charity. 

 Today, over 250 footballers and coaches are part of the movement, contributing to dozens of projects around the world. 

 Presenting the honour, British Ambassador Sir Alex Ellis said: 

 “Through his leadership and vision with Common Goal, Juan has shown how football can be a force for good. His commitment to support communities and make lives better is inspiring and it is my privilege to recognise his outstanding work with this Honorary MBE.” 

 Juan Mata said: 

 “I’m deeply grateful for this recognition. I’m fortunate to be able to dedicate myself professionally to what I’m most passionate about—football—and even more so that it’s something with such global significance. Sport in general, and football in particular, have a unique ability to unite and connect people, and to drive positive change. This honour strengthens our commitment to continue supporting those who strive to improve lives through our beloved game.”