Ander Herrera to start for Boca, star may change position in 2026 | OneFootball

It is clear that his 2025 was not good overall, but he ended it on a positive note. After renewing his contract for another year, Ander Herrera started the preseason in optimal physical condition and is hopeful for a much more active 2026 in a more ambitious Boca. For this reason, he could change the plans of Claudio Úbeda's preferred tactical scheme.

After seriously considering retirement during the holidays, the European midfielder decided to continue for another season in Argentine football but with significant salary changes in his contract with the Xeneize. Additionally, it is worth noting that training began at the facility owned by the institution in Ezeiza on January 2nd, and the Spaniard pleasantly surprised everyone with his condition.

The fact is that Herrera participates in the most demanding training sessions alongside the group. With this crucial factor in mind for the start of official competitions, there is a strong possibility that the coach will change the tactical setup thinking about the future. It is worth highlighting that during 2025 Ander hardly started any matches, but that could be different now.

Due to the full physical condition he has shown for a week, the presence of the Spaniard would make Úbeda switch to a 4-4-2 formation but with Exequiel Zeballos as a forward. Leaving the left wing as he has practically since his debut in the First Division, the Changuito would take the front of the attack with absolute freedom to move and associate with his teammates.

Thus, Boca would add Herrera as a midfielder and give up an area striker to include the native of Santiago del Estero as an offensive duo. In this way, the European would join the midfield led by Leandro Paredes with the aim of finally consolidating the elite duo within the squad that has hardly been utilized on the field.

Although there are still just over two weeks left before the start of the 2026 Torneo Apertura, the coach is beginning to draw conclusions from the preseason, and the coming days will be crucial to define what his ideal team will be. Additionally, in the coming hours, a formal football practice against the Reserve will take place, in which Úbeda will take action, and these will be key to starting the year.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.