Ander Herrera had to walk out of an interview with Manchester United’s media because the recollection of his departure from the club made him tearful.
Herrera made 189 appearances for United between 2014 and 2019, helping the club win the Europa League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup. The Spanish midfielder was a regular under the management of Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho.
He left United for Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the 2018/19 season after his contract expired. The 33-year-old, who now plays for Athletic Bilbao on loan from PSG, says the nature of his departure left a bitter taste in his mouth.
Speaking to the UTD Podcast, he became emotional when recalling the events surrounding his move. “To leave, it was difficult because six months before, five months before, I was expecting that offer for me to stay,” he said.
“I expected a little bit more from the club at that time. I got the Player of the Year award from the fans and the club didn't call me that summer to sign a new contract, and they did with other players. That was painful for me, honestly.
“I think I deserved it and they didn't do it. After, the conditions changed because I was not happy with that little moment with the club.”
Herrera was then asked if he felt emotional leaving Old Trafford for the final time in May 2019. While pondering his response, he remembered a picture from that day, following a match against Cardiff City, that was taken of him holding his daughter while waving to the crowd.
After initially trying to continue his answer by wiping away the tears, Herrera got up and walked off camera, away from his two interviewers, who apologised for making him emotional.
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Herrera won the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award at United for the 2016/17 season when the club picked up the Europa League and Carabao Cup under Mourinho’s management. That season he made 50 appearances across all competitions, playing a key role in midfield, alongside Paul Pogba, Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini.
He was under contract until June 2019 and felt his performances warranted a new deal on improved terms, only to be snubbed by the club’s hierarchy. United did offer him a fresh contract the following year, but he rejected it and ended up leaving on a free transfer.
Herrera has since made 96 appearances for PSG, winning seven trophies with the French giants, but he struggled to command a regular place in their midfield. In August he moved back to where it all began for him by joining Athletic Club on a season-long loan with an option to buy.
