In the video published to make the footballer's achievement official, the mayor said, "you have always proudly carried the name of our city around the world." Ander, for his part, said, "Zaragoza has always been and always will be my home. Fortunately, I have traveled to many places around the world, but Zaragoza has always been part of my life."
With this award, Ander Herrera will join the list of athletes and organizations honored with the municipality's highest sporting distinction. Previous recipients include figures such as skater Javier Fernández, driver Carlos Sainz, cyclist Alberto Contador, basketball player Pau Gasol and Paralympic swimmer Teresa Perales, as well as historic clubs such as Stadium Casablanca and Centro Natación Helios.
HIS PROFESSIONAL CAREER
The midfielder, who came through Real Zaragoza's youth academy, made his first-team debut on February 1, 2009, in a match against Levante. He was part of the senior squad for three seasons, making 86 appearances and scoring six goals, before leaving for Athletic Club in the summer of 2011. His development later took him to top European clubs such as Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as to Argentina, where he played for Boca Juniors.
We are going to award the Zaragoza City Medal for Sporting Merit to Ander Herrera, a native of Zaragoza who has proudly carried the name of our city around the world. Because no matter how many places you visit, the most beautiful thing is never forgetting where you come from. https://t.co/7CyUlTazQf — Natalia Chueca (@ChuecaNatalia) November 2, 2026
In 2026, Ander Herrera returned to Real Zaragoza at one of the most difficult sporting moments in the club's history, following its relegation to Primera Federación. His return reflects his desire to help his hometown team regain its place in professional football, in a gesture of commitment to the club where he developed and to which he has always acknowledged an emotional connection.
During his career, Ander Herrera has competed in domestic and international tournaments and won titles such as the UEFA Europa League and the FA Cup with Manchester United, as well as the 2024 Copa del Rey with Athletic Club. He was also part of the Spain under-20 team that won the gold medal at the 2009 Mediterranean Games.
