There was a familiar face in action on Sunday evening when Manchester United played their final pre-season friendly of the summer, with Erik ten Hag’s men facing Spanish outfit Athletic Club in Dublin.
Ten Hag named a much-changed side for the game against the Basque club, with the majority of first-team regulars instead playing in the Old Trafford friendly against Lens 24 hours prior.
It looked like United’s pre-season would end with defeat but a dramatic finish to the game ensured the Reds return to Manchester with a draw.
Ander Herrera, the former United midfielder, recently returned to Athletic and made an appearance in the second half to seal a reunion with the club he left four years ago.
Not many of the stars he featured alongside over his five years at Old Trafford were on the pitch, however, with Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof being the only ones.
Herrera took some time to speak to MUTV after the game as he reflected on coming up against the Reds for the first time since 2020.
“It is always fantastic to play in front of these fans,” the Spaniard said. “I have already done it a lot of times and always, I feel proud to do it.
“Today, here in Dublin, it was fantastic. They have showed me their support, their love and they know I feel the same for the club, for all of them.
“I hope both teams have a great season. Thanks to all of them for the love, for the support and they know I will never forget that.”
Quizzed further on the reception he received from the United faithful, Herrera admitted he was taken aback by the reaction when he was introduced in the second half.
“Of course, this is special and that touches me, of course,” he added. “That means you have done something good for the club, at least. I always put everything on the pitch for the club, for the badge and I feel so proud to have been a Manchester United player.
“That keeps for the rest of my life and I will support (the team from Bilbao). I’m optimistic for this season as well for the Premier League, the trophies. So I hope both teams can have a great season.”
United will now make the trip back to Manchester to prepare for the Premier League curtain-raiser against Wolves in eight days, with Ten Hag aiming to start this campaign better than the last one.
Nothing to see here, he clearly ‘ got ‘ United when he played, and still does. That makes him a Red. Hala Herrara.