Ander Herrera has given his version of events to how a move on transfer deadline day from Athletic Bilbao to Manchester United never materialised.
The player was seen as the subject of late interest from the English club, only for a last-ditch move to not go through, amid confusion over the role played by three Bilbao-based lawyers at the LFP offices on Monday.
On from training with his teammates, the midfielder faced the media to reflect on the recent events.
“I am proud to wear the shirt of Athletic,” began Herrera to reporters this afternoon.
“The last 24 hours were quiet. I ate with friends, I was very calm. At no time have I had a medical with anyone. The only option, as the President said, was for the club to pay my clause.
“There was no agreement with United. I do not feel used by United. I am proud that United bid for me and that Athletic wanted to keep me.
“I was never informed that United would pay the clause. There are questions that United must answer. I am proud that a club like United have bid for me.
“I am very happy at Athletic. I am just focused in my head on being here and having a good season in a stadium like San Mames.
“At no time did either me or my agent reach an agreement with United. I didn’t speak at any time with United, I have been very quiet.
“The lawyers at the LFP offices did not represent me. I do not even know who they are.
“I have been silent because the important thing was preparing for the game against Madrid [in Week 3]. Today I am here without any issue, that is the truth.
“Regarding hypothetical scenarios, I will not speak. What counts is that I am here and that I have never spoken to United. I will continue to demonstrate my commitment to Athletic, as I have since the first day I arrived.
“The club can confirm that my behaviour has been fantastic. I am calm because I behaved well. And the club is faithful and honest in what it conveys. I feel very valued.
“But if the club decides to talk to me, I will always listen. I know that United were going to bid, but we all know how Athletic are in these situations.
“I don’t know if they spoke with my agent, but even so they would then have to convince me. My commitment to Athletic has always been full and it will continue to be.”
