Aridani Arbelo, who wore the yellow jersey in the 2002/03 season, has positively assessed UD Las Palmas' performance in the current championship. In an interview, the former player was pleasantly surprised by the level displayed by Jesé, who is having a “fabulous” season, contributing crucial goals and leadership to the team.
The 2-1 victory against Huesca was a complicated match, according to Arbelo, but the changes introduced by coach Luis García in the second half proved decisive. The attack became more fluid, creating chances that led to a vital win for the Canarian side.
“"Jesé is at a superlative level. I didn't expect him to perform like this."
In addition to Jesé, Arbelo also praised Jonathan Viera's role, highlighting his participation and ability to create play, as well as Estanis Pedrola's performance, who was key in the second half of the match. UD Las Palmas is currently in fourth place with 57 points, just four points from direct promotion, and stands out as the team with the fewest goals conceded in the championship.
The former footballer expressed confidence in Luis García's work, emphasizing his ability to keep the team “switched on” and in playoff or direct promotion positions for almost every matchday. The team's defensive solidity is, in large part, due to the coach, according to Arbelo.
Maintaining the current defensive level is key to achieving promotion.
Regarding promotion possibilities, Aridani Arbelo was optimistic, stating that UD Las Palmas is one of the big teams in Segunda División and has every chance. However, he is not as sure whether promotion will be direct or through the playoffs, given the league's competitiveness.
Recalling his own career, Arbelo feels fortunate to have played for both UD Las Palmas and CD Tenerife, an experience not all Canarian footballers have. Although his heart club has always been Unión Deportiva, he also holds a special affection for Balompédica Conquense, where he was captain and achieved promotion.
Currently, Aridani Arbelo remains involved in football from an administrative role as the delegate in the Canary Islands for the Sindicato de Futbolistas ON. This union, created eight years ago, aims to represent and defend footballers of all categories, with a special focus on modest and women's football. They offer services such as legal advice and study scholarships, with the support of First and Second Division players.
