Former Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera is celebrating scoring his first ever goal in the Copa Libertadores.
Ander Herrera made the decision to quit European football in January 2025, signing a deal with Boca Juniors until the end of 2026.
Herrera had been playing for his former side Athletic Club in La Liga, but his time there had been impacted by injuries.
The Spaniard was inspired by the lure of playing in a new league, claiming to be a long-time Boca Juniors fan.
He reunited with former Manchester United teammates Sergio Romero and Marcos Rojo, who have since left the club.
Ander Herrera celebrates with Boca Juniors
Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images
Ander Herrera’s big night
Ander Herrera is now 36, and has had to battle age and injuries as he adapts to football in Argentina.
Last night Herrera scored his first ever goal for the club, in his 27th appearance.
Herrera’s goal came on the biggest stage in South America, in the Copa Libertadores, the continent’s equivalent to the Champions League.
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This was only Herrera’s third ever appearance in the Libertadores, when he was brought on as an 86th minute substitute.
Boca were facing Ecuadorian side Barcelona SC. Herrera had time to score a stoppage time goal to extend their lead to a 3-0 victory.
Herrera received the ball in space outside the box, before firing a low effort across the goalkeeper which nestled in the corner of the net.
It was a sweet moment for the former Manchester United midfielder, and one that he was overjoyed to celebrate.
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Herrera replaced Manchester United linked wonderkid
Ander Herrera came off the bench to replace teenage prospect Tomas Aranda, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United.
Aranda, 18, completed 91 per cent of his passes in the win, with another competent showing that shows how he has quickly settled in as a starter.
He only made his first team debut in January, and the playmaker has been tipped by his manager to become one of the world’s best players.
If United’s interest really did develop, then he can speak to Herrera and current teammate Edinson Cavani for advice.
Superclasico up next
A big game awaits Ander Herrera this weekend when Boca Juniors face rivals River Plate in the Superclasico.
While Herrera will likely start on the bench, his goal in Boca’s latest win shows that he is ready if he is called upon.
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