Why Herrera is playing for free in Spanish third division
Ander Herrera’s most recent competitive game was in front of a raucous La Bombonera crowd playing for Boca Juniors in the Copa Libertadores. His next will be in the Spanish third division in front of roughly 6,500 fans against a regional side, Gimnastic de Tarragona. But Herrera says his return to Real Zaragoza on a […]
Ander Herrera, the 37-year-old midfielder, is returning to his boyhood club Real Zaragoza in the Spanish third division on a free transfer. This move, which allows Herrera to donate his salary to the club’s foundation, is significant to him as it marks the end of a 15-year career and the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Herrera, who has played for top clubs including Boca Juniors, Athletic Club, Manchester United, Paris St-Germain, and Barcelona, expressed his passion for football and his desire to help Zaragoza return to its former glory.
The club, which was relegated from La Liga in 2012-13, has been struggling in recent years. Herrera, who was a fan of the club since childhood, hopes to use his experience and quality to help the team improve. He is focusing on short-term goals, such as helping the club rebuild, but remains open to the possibility of a future career in coaching.
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