The Spaniard was on the end of a dressing down from Jose Mourinho at the end of last season (Getty)

Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera made a huge faux pas at the end last season that severely damaged his relationship with manager Jose Mourinho, according to reports.

The Spanish star was one of the Special One’s most important players last year as they won two trophies, earning the praise of his manager and teammates alike and even muted as a potential successor to Wayne Rooney as club captain.

But he has played just 77 minutes across all competitions so far this season, and the Daily Mail report that his reduced pitch time traces back to a fallout with Mourinho.

Herrera picked up the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award last season (Picture: Getty)
Herrera picked up the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award last season (Picture: Getty)

Although not made public at the time, Herrera innocently invited a friend with close ties to Celta Vigo – United’s semi-final opponent in the Europa League – to the club’s Carrington training ground shortly before their tie.

Mourinho recognised the visitor and was furious, immediately calling Herrera into his office for a dressing down.

Herrera has started just once this season, though was subbed off after 72 minutes (Picture: Getty)

Since then, their relationship has soured somewhat – something with has been noticed around the club – and is reflected in Herrera’s reduced game time, even overlooked against Basel despite Paul Pogba’s injury.

‘We used to joke that he was Jose’s golden boy, and they were always chatting about the game,’ a source told the Mail. ‘But the dynamic has changed since the end of last season. It’s not the same.’

Herrera is out of contract next summer but United still hope to tie him down to a new deal despite the latest development, rather than risk losing him for nothing.

Pogba’s injury, ruling him out for six weeks, is seen as a massive opportunity for Herrera to win back Mourinho’s trust and play himself back into the starting XI – if he can get the nod over Fellaini!

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