According to Sport, Boca Juniors is about to officially announce the termination of Ander Herrera's contract, which leaves open the possibility of his return to Real Zaragoza.

Lalo stated: "As Sporting Director, if I have even a 1% chance of keeping Ander here, I will do everything I can to bring him in. He is very important for the club in the short, medium, and long term. Few players can help us both in the short and long term like he can. I couldn't be clearer, if there's even a glimmer of possibility, I will go for it."

Lalo also said that the player, who will turn 37 in August, has been plagued by injuries during his year and a half at Boca Juniors, playing only 29 games in total, but has always made an impact when on the field. He added: "He is a different type of player and must be treated differently. I said on Monday that promotion is important, but how we achieve promotion is equally important. In this process, Ander is crucial. He has his own rhythm and needs his own space."

Lalo did not hide his strong interest in this return. He said that this didn't happen in 2024, and Herrera left Zaragoza in 2011. Two years ago, he didn't feel valued or needed enough when he returned to Athletic Bilbao, and ultimately didn't rejoin the team for a contract renewal. However, the situation is completely different now; he has a good relationship with the entire technical department, especially with Fran Gracia, and also enjoys working with head coach Ibai; both had previously worked together at Athletic Bilbao. Lalo believes that Herrera can greatly contribute in terms of commitment and as a role model on the path to promotion and a return to La Liga 2.

Ibai also admitted that he anticipated questions about his former teammate. "I've been preparing for this question since yesterday. We have a good relationship. When people make decisions, the outside world doesn't have all the information, and we should understand everyone. He has always said that when he was at Athletic Bilbao, he hoped to return here one day. I know Ander's thoughts as a Zaragozan and a Zaragoza fan very well, and I feel like I know almost everything that has happened over the years. Besides his role on the field, he will also greatly help the young players who are promoted. As for whether I want him to be part of the coaching staff? Of course, I want him to come, but I haven't talked to him yet; if we had already talked in depth, I would say no."

Ibai finally added: "I know the topic of Ander Herrera is sensitive. He is someone who loves football, and I always talk about football with him. I believe that one day, Real Zaragoza and Ander will come together. There may be different opinions outside, but I also have to say that we are still far from drawing conclusions. Ander can still bring a lot to a club like Real Zaragoza right now."