The talent present in Manchester United’s midfield is unreal. To add to that, the Red Devils signed Fred in the summer and it was obvious that somebody from the many available midfielders would have to get left out very often during matches. Unfortunately, that has come to Ander Herrera.
The Spanish midfielder has fallen down the pecking order in recent months. Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic are indispensable options, and Jose Mourinho has often employed Fred, Marouane Fellaini or Scott McTominay next to the formidable duo of the Serbian and French internationals.
As a result, Herrera’s playing time has been severely restricted, so much so that he has played only 68 Premier League minutes this season. His only start of the season came in Manchester United’s 3-0 drubbing by the hands of Spurs at the Old Trafford. After making mistakes which led to two of Spurs’ goals, Herrera has not played a part in league proceedings.
Inevitably, the rumour mill has started linking him to the exit door at Manchester United. A move to Athletic Bilbao on a free transfer next summer is very much on the cards and looking like a realistic option considering the lack of playing time that Herrera has endured at the club.
The Basque giants are only waiting for their revenue bills to show a positive result so that they can satisfy Herrera’s gigantic wage demands and bring him back to the San Mames Stadium next year. Legally, Herrera will be allowed to sign for a club starting from January when there’ll be only six months on his contract to run.
AUTHOR’S TAKE
Ander Herrera’s departure from the Old Trafford will be a sensible decision for both the parties but it will be an emotional one as well. The 29 year old has been endlessly committed to the Red Devils and will be hoping that he can come back one day.