Former Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera has explained the reasoning behind his decision to turn out for Real Zaragoza free of charge.
Emotional return
Last month, Zaragoza confirmed they had signed Herrera after he was released by Boca Juniors in Argentina.
Herrera spent five seasons at United after signing from Athletic Club in the summer of 2014 for around €36m. United triggered his release clause.
The Spaniard became a cult figure during his time at Old Trafford, endearing himself to supporters with his tenacious midfield performances and unmistakable commitment to the cause.
He made 189 appearances for the Red Devils, contributing 20 goals.
Following his free-agent exit from United, Herrera embarked on a highly successful stint at Paris Saint-Germain. He then returned to Athletic Club, later moved to Boca Juniors, and then finally completed the circle by rejoining Zaragoza, where it all began.
Unusual decision
Herrera is on a mission to lift Zaragoza back up the Spanish pyramid after their fall to the third division.
The 37-year-old is not drawing a salary while on Zaragoza’s books. Instead, his wages are being donated to the side’s charitable arm.
Herrera told BBC, “I don’t need a contract. I have a very successful career. I have taken care of my money. I can give this present to myself. To put that shirt on… for free because I wanted to help my club, my team, my city.”
“It’s something that I wanted to do. It’s something that I am able to do and it’s something that makes me feel so proud to be able to be here just to help.”
“I am not thinking about money or contracts. I feel a privilege to be able to do that.”
He continued, “This is probably the last dream that I wanted to make come true. To come back home, to the place where I grew up, that gave me the opportunity to be professional – not only in football, also as a human being.”
“And I still have the passion, I still have the desire. I still have that love for football and to do it at home is the best way to end up in my career. In Spain, we say closing the circle.”
“Real Zaragoza belong to Europe, they belong to compete for trophies, to be fighting with the biggest clubs in Spain and in Europe. I want to put my quality, my experience and my passion to try to help my team to come back where I think we belong.”
Meanwhile, United return to action on Sunday when they host Ipswich Town.
Featured image Marcello Endelli via Getty Images
