Surprise: Ander Herrera is leaving Boca and could be a reinforcement for a team in Spain

Ander Herrera is now part of Boca Juniors' past. The experienced 36-year-old Basque midfielder bid farewell to the club at La Bombonera after a spell marked by injuries and few opportunities. In an emotional video shared by the institution, the player was seen in tears and confirmed that he will remain a fan for life.

The departure occurred because coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena did not consider him for what is to come. "The club and I have decided to continue this adventure in a different way," Herrera expressed in his farewell message.

Now, an interesting surprise is emerging from Spain. Real Zaragoza, the club where he was formed and debuted in the First Division, is hopeful about his return. The team has just been relegated to the Third Division, but that does not dampen the enthusiasm of the management to repatriate one of its idols after 15 years.

Coach Ibai Gómez was clear when talking about Herrera's possible arrival. He highlighted everything the Basque can contribute, not only on the field but especially with the young players coming up from the squad.

The coaching staff's wish

"I know what Ander Herrera means as a Zaragoza native, as a Zaragoza fan. I perfectly understand everything he may have gone through," Gómez said. The coach admitted that he has not yet spoken with the player, but he was very positive: "Hopefully Ander Herrera comes." He believes that the union between Zaragoza and Herrera will happen one way or another.

For the coaching staff, the midfielder still has a lot to give. His experience in major European clubs makes him an ideal reference for a team looking to rebuild after relegation.

Herrera shone at Athletic Bilbao, Manchester United, and Paris Saint-Germain before arriving at Boca. His time in Argentine football was far from what was expected: he played only 29 matches, scored one goal against Barcelona in the Copa Libertadores, and suffered six muscle tears.

In total, he accumulated 1,174 minutes on the field, averaging around 40 minutes per match. Injuries were the major obstacle that prevented seeing the best version of the midfielder.

A short cycle

Despite the physical difficulties, Herrera left his mark at Boca with professionalism and dedication. He is now seeking a new destination to close his career with playing time and good performances.

From Zaragoza, they see in him much more than just a player. His arrival could inject experience, leadership, and motivation into a locker room that needs to turn the page after being relegated.

The management of the Aragonese club plans to move quickly to finalize the signing. For Zaragoza fans, seeing Herrera again in the white and blue jersey would be a dream come true after so long.