Herrera on Bielsa's Chile snub: 'They labeled me as problematic'

Johnny Herrera, a legendary former goalkeeper for Universidad de Chile and current sports commentator, reflected on his career and personal life in an interview with the Professional Footballers' Union (Sifup). He specifically addressed his absence from the national team during Marcelo Bielsa's tenure.

Herrera believes his exclusion stemmed from a "problematic" reputation. He recalled that during Bielsa's time, all other goalkeepers had opportunities, but Daniel Morón, the goalkeeping coach who knew Herrera as a rival, had labeled him as "problematic." Herrera stated that Morón's feedback to Bielsa was that he was "problematic," which led to him not being called up. He also mentioned that "Bichi" Borghi later didn't call him up because he felt having such a strong second-choice goalkeeper on the bench was not ideal.

Despite the frustration, Herrera respected these decisions and quickly moved past them. He emphasized that his "true national team was la U" (Universidad de Chile). Although he debuted for the national team at 21 and played for many years, he felt the circumstances of his career meant he never "died for" the national team.

Herrera also recounted the difficult period following a fatal traffic accident in 2009. He expressed gratitude for the support he received from Audax Italiano, the club he played for at the time, which allowed him to continue his career. He credited the club's management and the Antillo family for providing immense support, including psychological help, and enabling him to move forward. Herrera reflected that life's challenges, such as leaving home at 13, losing his mother and brother, and the accident, have shaped him into the person he is today. He recalled his mother's wise saying: "Keep going, God won't strangle you, he just tightens the grip."