A Manchester United fan's open letter to Ander Herrera

Dearest Ander,

It is not easy being a Manchester United fan at the moment, and millions of ardent Man Utd followers will agree to this. The season has turned out to be an utter disaster, but another painful reality is your confirmed exit.

I don't know why you decided to part ways, nor am I disappointed in you, because you sir are a genius who is capable of sliding into any team. If I had been at the helm of the club, then my utmost priority would've been to convince you to stay, simply because you represent Manchester United's true spirit.

Your celebrations, the energy you exerted on the pitch, your never-give-up attitude, and above all, your on-field genius is something we Manchester United fans will truly miss.

At a club like Manchester United, where some of the greatest midfielders have played, you Ander made a name for yourself, and we may not have enjoyed a really glorious period in the post-Sir Alex era, but it is fair to say that watching you arrive and play with all your heart was something that kept us all going.

From your superb goal against Yeovil Town to your dominating display against a dynamic Chelsea side, the list of memories you gave is mighty long and impressive. Talking about that game against Chelsea, all eyes were on Eden Hazard, but you kept him quiet and helped us register a famous win.

The world was head over heels with players like Luka Modric, David Silva, and more, but I considered you the midfield master. Many might argue with the comparison here, but on my list, Ander Herrera will be on top, and that is the bottom line.

Men like you are the true heroes, and in a world where goalscorers steal the spotlight, avid football fanatics admire players like you for your unflinching resolve. Whether we were leading or trailing, having a tough night or a smooth passage, your urge to win kept us glued to our seats till the very last whistle.

Whichever club acquires you will be fortunate because players like you don't come easy! I was pained to the core upon seeing the confirmation of your departure.

In the midst of the rumours, I kept myself strong and believed that things would get better and you would don the red shirt yet again in the upcoming season, but with your imminent departure confirmed, I wish you the best of luck.

Your spirit, your energy, and most importantly your dedication will be missed by millions. You respected the badge and gave the fans a reason to tune in even in our tough times. Have a great career, Ander. Once a Red Devil, always a Red Devil!

Swashbuckling superstars are fancy and catch our attention, but the fighting spirit of players like you will be embedded in our hearts forever! May the current crop of United players draw inspiration from you, and help revive this great club from the current slump.

- A Manchester United fan