Mexico midfielder Herrera explains reasons for Gold Cup absence

The player is preparing for a summer transfer and says he needs to get back to peak fitness after a demanding season with Porto

Mexico midfielder Hector Herrera confirmed he won’t be taking part in this summer’s Gold Cup, instead resting up ahead of a transfer move.

The veteran midfielder is approaching his 50th match played for Porto in the 2018-19 season between captaining the Dragons in league matches, a run to the Champions League quarterfinals and a pair of cup competitions.

The 29-year-old reportedly has agreed to a deal that would see him join La Ligaside Atletico Madrid this summer. His contract with Porto is expiring, and he has long been expected to leave the club on a free transfer. He said Sunday that his club future played a role in his decision not to join manager Tata Martino’s side in the United States as Mexico looks to win back the Gold Cup.