Share this @internewscast.com

Juan Mata has always been more than just a very good footballer.

He’s a restaurateur, philanthropist, mental health advocate, Formula 1 investor, and football club owner, among other roles. He has even received an MBE for his contributions to sport and charity. His latest pursuit? Art curation.

As part of the 2025 Manchester International Festival, the former Manchester United and Chelsea player – now with the Western Sydney Wanderers in Australia – has unveiled an exhibition titled Football City, Art United.

Created in partnership with esteemed curator Hans Ulrich Obrist, filmmaker Josh Willdigg, and visual arts producer Holly Shuttleworth, this project features new works from 11 legendary footballers and 11 contemporary artists. It explores the dynamic intersection between the vibrancy of the pitch and the creativity of the studio.

Among the footballers featured are former United stars Eric Cantona and Shinji Kagawa, current United Women’s star Ella Toone, Brazil legend Raí and the always colourful Edgar Davids.

From sound installations and manga art to animation, sculpture and genre-defying collaborations, Football City, Art United pushes boundaries and reimagines creativity through a footballing lens.

“The concept is to try to create a relationship between art and football,” Mata told United’s official website. “I think it’s fun. It’s been a learning process for me, of course it’s very different to what I’m used to, but I’m really happy with the result and the exhibition.”

Mata was particularly thrilled to work alongside Cantona – a man he described as “an artist on the pitch.”

Eric Cantona produced work for Juan Mata’s art exhibition. / Shaun Botterill/GettyImages

“The way he played football and everything he did, he was different and unique,” said the Spaniard. “And so he was also very happy and welcoming to the idea of joining. So, I’m very happy and proud that he is one of the players in the exhibition and I’m so happy to be here today and to get to know it for the first time.”

Mata’s exhibition is on display at North Warehouse, Aviva Studios, Water Street, Manchester from 4 July to 24 August 2025.

A truly one-of-a-kind cultural crossover – this is one football and art fans alike won’t want to miss.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Marty Sheargold Fires Back at Critics in Bid to Reignite Career After Losing Radio Job Over Sexist Matildas Comments

Controversial media personality Marty Sheargold has responded to his critics following the…

Manchester United Probes Fan Assault Over Hair Refusal, Anticipating Tensions at Brentford on Saturday, and a Look at Tyrell Malacia’s Under-21 Experience: INSIDE MAN UNITED

Visits to Brentford present significant challenges for Manchester United these days, and…

SIR CLIVE WOODWARD: Following England’s Women’s World Cup Victory, Key Steps for Rugby Leaders to Avoid Past Mistakes

Throughout my coaching career, I had the privilege of working with outstanding…

Celtic Captain McGregor Dismisses Hearts’ Strong Start as Champions Slip Two Points in Title Race Following Home Draw with Hibs

Callum McGregor has asserted that he is not particularly focused on Hearts…

The Untold Story of Graham Potter’s West Ham Departure: Behind-the-Scenes Chaos, Transfer Saga Disruptions, Player Support, and the Next Hammers Manager

It’s over, again, for Graham Potter. Seven months at Chelsea, eight months…

Chelsea 2-1 Lincoln: Shaky Blues escape upset with Tyrique George’s dramatic two-minute comeback, saving Enzo Maresca from embarrassment

Sincil Bank may not possess the grandeur of the Allianz Arena or…

Cameron Young revitalizes Bryson DeChambeau while US newcomer challenges Keegan Bradley’s Ryder Cup strategy

Ludvig Aberg was preparing for a putt on the ninth green on…