Should Manchester United’s Ander Herrera Consider Joining Barcelona?
Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera is understood to have captured the attention of Spanish giants Barcelona, as the La Liga club are interested in a January move for the 28-year-old. His contract is due to end next summer, and it is still unsure as to whether or not the Red Devils will choose to retain him – although at this point, there appears to be no reason for them to let go of him.
Herrera has become increasingly ineffective over the new season. The 4-2-3-1 formation with Nemanja Matic as the deepest midfielder has eliminated his need further. Basically, in a midfield two, Herrera offers less than Marouane Fellaini, and in a midfield three he has struggled to make an impact. Perhaps when Paul Pogba returns, Mourinho could consider using him and Matic to provide quality in the big games – like he did against Liverpool. But for now, Herrera seems to be struggling to find form and he could be tempted by a return to Spain.
As far as Barcelona are concerned, they have made a bright start to the season and are looking determined. However, much has been said about how the club could improve and Ernesto Valverde is already on the lookout for potential reinforcements.
Of course, the Catalan giants have the legendary Andres Iniesta in their squad but at 33 years of age, he is unlikely to be able to perform at his best in the coming years. Thus, Herrera could be looked at as his long-term successor.
The midfielder will also be keen to play regularly if he wants to make it to Spain’s World Cup squad next year. He could receive a better opportunity to do so at Barcelona since Valverde is a long-term admirer of Herrera, having worked with him during their spell together at Athletic Bilbao. Thus, a move could possibly benefit all parties involved. However, it remains to be seen if United would be willing to part ways with Herrera.
He is the kind of player that Mourinho loves to have on his side, and the Portuguese manager understands the Spaniard’s value. While Matic is probably a better fit in the 4-2-3-1 that Mourinho seems to be favouring these days, it is highly likely that they will shift to a 4-3-3 in bigger games where the United midfield could use more protection, with Herrera joining Matic and Pogba in the middle of the park.
Having said that, Herrera definitely has a future at United but if he wants to put his personal growth ahead, he might consider a switch to Barcelona.