Manchester United midfielder is fighting a losing battle
Ander Herrera can’t crack the Manchester United starting XI
Manchester United fans can admire Ander Herrera for his attitude and work rate, but it isn’t going to translate to success on the pitch. If he thinks he can crack Jose Mourinho’s starting XI on a regular basis, he’s set to be severely disappointed.
The Spanish midfield got a rare start in United’s 1-0 loss to Feyenoord in the Europa League this week, but didn’t make a compelling case for more playing time with his performance on the pitch. Instead, he’s opted to speak about his desire to play more minutes in the press. He reiterated his willingness to work tirelessly for the club in today’s Manchester Evening News.
At 27 years of age, Herrera should realize that he’s in over his head. He just doesn’t have the talent to compete in a midfield with the likes of Paul Pogba and Morgan Schneiderlin. Even if he could carve out a valuable substitute’s role in the short-term, United would look to purchase a better option in the January transfer window.
It makes you wonder what Herrera’s motivation is at this point. Perhaps he really does believe he’s capable of starting every week for Mourinho. That isn’t actually true, but he wouldn’t be the first player to have an inflated opinion of his own abilities.
Herrera would be better off finding a new club if he wants to be a regular starter. He could certainly help a middle-tier Premier League side, but he isn’t worthy of starting for a Premier League title contender.
As a fan without a real interest in whether or not Herrera succeeds, I must admit I do feel bad for him. He seems to be a hard worker; the kind of player that every fan wants at their club. Unfortunately for him, he’s just toiling away for a club where he isn’t good enough to make a real impact.
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