MLS
Bricklayer to soccer star: how Héctor Herrera made it in the United States
The Mexican midfielder recalled that at some point he believed that the future was working as a laborer in the US.
Héctor Herrera, a 33-year-old Mexican footballer who has played for major clubs such as Porto (Portugal) and Atlético Madrid (Spain), recently revealed on LinkedIn that he had once intended to emigrate to the United States in pursuit of the famous “American Dream”. His goal was to work as a construction bricklayer with aims to lead a better life.
Herrara explains US sliding doors moment
This message, which he shared in commemoration of Cinco de Mayo (5 May), drew the attention of both locals and foreigners alike, given Herrera’s admirable career as a professional player. What makes it even more remarkable is that he actually achieved his objective of working in the neighboring country, and is now regarded as one of the best players on the Houston Dynamo team in Major League Soccer.
“Many people don’t know it, but a few years ago I was about to come to the US as an immigrant to work in construction,” wrote ‘HH’ in order to show the connection that exists between him and all the national fans with whom he has had the opportunity to live within the United States.
“Today I feel very happy because despite not being in Mexico I feel surrounded by Mexicans who, like me, had to leave our land to fight and get ahead… and I am very fortunate to be able to share many joys with you. Long live Mexico and happy 5 May,” Herrera said in the LinkedIn post.
With Héctor Miguel in the highest tier of American soccer, there are already 17 players who have a place within the MLS teams, including Carlos Vela (LAFC), Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández (L.A Galaxy), Rodolfo Pizarro (Inter Miami), Alan Pulido ( Sporting Kansas City), among others.