Ander Herrera
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Can Manchester United afford to lose Ander Herrera?

Qasim Mujtaba Naqvi·
Manchester United
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A short look into what Manchester United will miss if Ander Herrera leaves the club, and how they perform without him in the side…

Earlier this month, tabloids began focusing on the growing possibility of Ander Herrera leaving Manchester United on a free transfer. Since the win against Watford on 31st March, Herrera has not featured for United. Many feel this is due to unrest caused by the aforementioned rumours. The player is apparently set to sign for PSG on a free transfer as United have failed to meet his contract demands. However, Ole Gunnar Solskjær has maintained that Herrera’s absence is due to injury.

The fan base remains divided on his departure. The midfielder is a fan-favourite who covers ground quickly; moves the ball about well; and chips in with the occasional goal. Some even wanted him to be appointed club captain after Michael Carrick announced his retirement last season. Even so, his popularity has dipped since the murmurs of his departure have escalated, with many convinced he’s not worth what he demands. Herrera himself has said he’ll give all he can until he’s contracted to the Red Devils.

However, a simple look into Ander Herrera’s involvement in the games United have won illustrates his importance. Although statistics as far back as 2014/15 can be used to reinforce this point, his performances under Solskjær are the best indicator. He’s the current manager and his system fits the Spaniard perfectly; a quick, high energy, and high pressing style that exploits his tenacity.

The numbers highlight how good Ander Herrera has been for United under Solskjær. Despite all that, not many seem to be saddened by the possibility of losing him. It wouldn’t be wrong to say Herrera’s footballing ability can be replaced by a younger talent – with Atlético Madrid’s Saúl Ñíguez among the names being mentioned – but that doesn’t negate the midfielder’s value.

Herrera’s passion and combative nature will undoubtedly be missed by United. He seems like he genuinely loves the club. Over his five year tenure, he’s displayed his affinity for the club time and time again. His actions, interviews, and performances only back this up.

Sunday night saw Herrera return to United’s starting line-up for the first time since the game against Watford. United were under pressure to perform. They’d been humiliated 4-0 by Everton at Goodison Park, and followed it up with another spineless display against Manchester City in midweek. Both games were considered must-win for United in their fight for the top-four and UEFA Champions League qualification. Not only did they lose, the manner of defeat was shambolic.

The players seemed like they didn’t care; they were outrun and outplayed. Herrera’s return against Chelsea instantly showed what United were missing. His energetic nature was coupled with an eye for a pass and a number of crunching tackles. The former Athletic Bilbao midfielder put in a performance that added merit to his request for a new contact. He gave it his all – and as a fan, it’s difficult to criticise a player who’s dedicated to the cause.

United’s unwillingness to pay Ander Herrera significantly higher wages is seen as understandable. But are people wrong to suggest that? We’ve seen players leave the club for much less. Is it worth letting a player who loves the club leave just because he wants financial parity with his teammates? Is it a risk when you know passion can’t be bought in modern football? We’ll get our answer soon as Herrera’s contract continues to run down – but Manchester United have made no effort to retain him as of now.

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