Héctor Herrera Reflects on Regretful Spitting Incident in Dynamo Playoff Exit
It’s not every day that a player with a storied career like Héctor Herrera finds himself at the center of controversy, but that’s exactly what happened earlier this month. The former Houston Dynamo designated player made headlines for all the wrong reasons after being sent off in a playoff game against the Seattle Sounders for spitting at referee Armando Villarreal. Now, Herrera is speaking out about the incident, calling it the one regret of his career.
In an interview with Fox Sports Mexico, Herrera didn’t hold back when reflecting on his actions. “The only mistake I regret is my last game,” he admitted. “My actions that I had is the only thing I regret in my career, because I have always been very correct, a good teammate, I have always controlled my impulses in moments when I have to keep my head cold. And in this one, no.”
The Incident That Shocked MLS Fans
The drama unfolded during the second game of the best-of-three MLS playoff series between the Dynamo and the Sounders. Herrera first received a yellow card for a foul, but things escalated quickly. Disagreeing with the call, he argued with the referee before turning around and spitting in Villarreal’s direction. The act earned him an automatic red card and expulsion, leaving his team in a tough spot.
For Dynamo fans, it was a bitter pill to swallow. Herrera had been a key figure for the team, and his actions not only marred the game but also cast a shadow over his time in Houston. The fallout was swift, with Dynamo general manager Pat Onstad later revealing that the incident played a role in the team’s decision to decline Herrera’s 2025 contract option. Just like that, Herrera’s time with the Dynamo came to an unceremonious end.
What’s Next for Herrera?
Despite the controversy, Herrera remains optimistic about his future. The 34-year-old midfielder is now a free agent and says he’s received offers from a variety of leagues, including Liga MX, MLS, and even Saudi Arabia. “Look, I think that, thank God, I have many offers from Mexico, MLS, Saudi Arabia, and other places,” he said. “I think I’m at a point in my career where I can choose where to play and the truth is that I’m very calm.”
Herrera also emphasized that he’s been taking care of himself physically, which he believes has contributed to his strong performances in recent years. “I think that perhaps these are the two years that I have taken the most care of myself off the field, working at home, having physios, having masseuses, and well, the results speak for themselves,” he explained. “Thanks to that, I think I have had two very good years in Houston in which it gives me that peace of mind of being in the moment I am.”
A Look Back at Herrera’s Dynamo Career
While his time in Houston ended on a sour note, Herrera’s contributions to the team shouldn’t be overlooked. Over the course of 82 matches, he recorded eight goals and 22 assists. Perhaps his most significant achievement came in 2023 when he helped lead the Dynamo to the US Open Cup title. The team defeated Inter Miami 2-1 at Chase Stadium to claim the trophy, a moment that will undoubtedly be remembered by Dynamo fans.
Key Takeaways from the Héctor Herrera Saga
- Herrera’s spitting incident in the playoff game against the Sounders led to his expulsion and played a role in the Dynamo’s decision to decline his 2025 contract option.
- Despite the controversy, Herrera remains a sought-after player, with offers from Liga MX, MLS, Saudi Arabia, and other leagues.
- During his time with the Dynamo, Herrera made significant contributions, including leading the team to the 2023 US Open Cup title.
As Herrera enters the next chapter of his career, it’s clear that he’s determined to move forward. While the spitting incident will undoubtedly be a blemish on his record, his talent and experience make him a valuable asset for any team willing to take a chance on him. For now, fans will have to wait and see where the midfielder lands next.
Originally Written by: Unknown
