Herrerín: “Athletic Club is my life”

Athletic Club goalkeeper Iago Herrerín reiterated his pride at being able to spend part of his professional career at his boyhood club.

The Bilbao-born shotstopper recently announced he will be leaving the Lions at the end of the season, bringing an end to a spell that saw him make 119 top-flight appearances for Athletic over the last eight seasons.

“Athletic is my life,” Herrerín said at his farewell press conference on Wednesday morning. “It’s been my club since I was a little boy.

“For me it was a dream to play here. At times, I’ve done better or worse, but I’ve always demanded the most from myself.

“I’ve been treated really well and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by all support I’ve received from the fans.

“You have to be grateful. For me, Athletic, the fans and the players are the greatest thing I’ve ever known.”

Iago commented on how happy he is to see so many messages of support from his teammates: “I’ve been here for eight years. When you play, you feel more valued.

“But even now, I’ve felt the recognition from my teammates. I’m leaving with my head held high.”

The shotstopper admitted that not playing this season has been difficult, saying: “It’s been a tough year. The pandemic hasn’t made it easy for me to leave.

“I preferred to stay, rather than accept an offer that didn’t really interest me, and to be here to help if the coach needed me at any time.”