Why Herrera is playing for free in Spanish third division

What the report says

Ander Herrera has returned to Real Zaragoza, the club where he began his career, on a free transfer from Boca Juniors and says he has chosen to donate his salary to Zaragoza’s foundation. The BBC Sport Football report says the 37-year-old midfielder is back at his boyhood team after 15 years away, with his next competitive match set to come in Spain’s third division against Gimnastic de Tarragona.

Herrera, who also played for Athletic Club, Manchester United, Paris St-Germain and Boca, described the move as a way to “close the circle” at the place that shaped him as a player and person. He said he wanted to use his experience, quality and passion to help a club he believes belongs at a higher level. Zaragoza, who won the 1995 Cup Winners’ Cup, were relegated from La Liga in 2013 and have since slipped into the third tier after a long run of declining finishes in the second division.

The article says Herrera first left Zaragoza in 2011, when the club was in financial difficulty, but had always hoped to return. He emphasized that he does not need a contract because he has already had a successful career. His decision also reflects a personal connection to the city and club, including his father’s past role at Zaragoza and his own childhood memories of watching their European success.

Looking ahead, Herrera says he still feels motivated and may one day work in football after he retires, possibly in coaching or youth development. For now, his focus is on helping Zaragoza rebuild and on passing on lessons about patience, development and the pressures young players face.