OneFootball
Seamus Leonard·27 September 2020
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Seamus Leonard·27 September 2020
Miguel Herrera may be a divisive figure figure among America fans at the moment, but one of his former players has spoken effusively about the brilliance of ‘El Piojo’.
Retired goalkeeper Federico Vilar worked under Herrera twice during his 13-year career in Mexican football, first at Atlante and then at Tijuana before he retired at Xolos in 2016.
In an interview with MARCA Claro, the Argentine described his experience under the temperamental manager.
“He was a total influence,” Vilar said.
“A great human being, a great coach and person above all things.
“He has a very particular gift. He knows how to reach the player in the best way and brings out the best in each one.”
Vilar also revealed that a heart-to-heart with Herrera convinced the now 43-year-old to postpone his retirement in 2015/16 in order to play a final year at Tijuana.
He is most closely associated with Atlante, having spent seven years with the Mexico City side and helped them land the 2007 Apertura and the 2008/09 CONCACAF Champions League.