Three ways in which Borja Herrera will help East Bengal

The midfielder was an integral part of the Nizams in the previous season.

Borja Herrera, formerly of Hyderabad FC, signs for East Bengal FC before the upcoming 2023-24 Indian Super League season begins. The central midfielder is a brilliant addition to the Red & Gold Brigade, who are building a formidable squad for the next season.

The arrival of Carles Cuadrat as the head coach made shockwaves around Indian football. The addition of Borja Herrera to East Bengal FC further strengthens the squad and their chances of playoffs qualification next term. The Spanish midfielder signed for EBFC on a one-year contract after helping Hyderabad FC secure playoff qualification in the previous campaign.

Borja Herrera is an exceptional midfielder who can perform multiple roles. His addition to the squad will be beneficial and it will be interesting to see how Carles Cuadrat utilises his qualities. Here are three ways in which his inclusion helps East Bengal FC as the new season approaches closer.

Squad Depth

East Bengal FC struggled with a lack of options in the midfield last season. Due to the thin squad and lack of quality on the bench, the team threw several matches because of poor second-half performances. Borja Herrera excels at contributing to the cause from the bench and that is something EBFC needs to have in the next season. His experience of winning and grinding out results with Hyderabad FC adds more credibility to his reputation.

Borja Herrera is a brilliant option to send onto the pitch from the bench. He played this role sensationally for Hyderabad FC. When Joao Victor was injured for a long period, Herrera filled in for him and performed well as a regular starter. Furthermore, he is an able replacement for players like Jordan O'Doherty and Alex Lima. 

Valuable attacking option

Borja Herrera is not only a brilliant holding midfielder, but also a deadly attacking option. In fact, his appearances from the bench in a No.10 role made him a dangerous figure in Hyderabad FC’s lineup. 

The 30-year-old has a knack for taking shots from range and often keeping them on target. He has a mean left foot that can strike the ball with good technique and precision. His ability to make late runs into the box and vision in the goalmouth area make him a decent attacking option, especially from the bench.

Borja's versatility an added asset

Borja Herrera provided five assists in his first season in the Indian Super League in addition to scoring four goals in 22 appearances. He was the second-highest assist provider for the Nizams and East Bengal FC fans will be hoping to see him replicate these numbers or even improve upon them.

Borja Herrera’s long-distance aerial crosses can cause trouble to any opposition. He also delivers pinpoint crosses from free-kick situations which will add a further attacking layer to East Bengal FC. He can also create chances for his teammates from corner kicks and perform a deep-lying playmaker's role thanks to his vision and ball distribution.