The best signing for Alianza Lima in the Clausura Tournament

Fans of Alianza Lima consider him the best signing the club made for the Clausura Tournament. And despite being tempted to return to Europe, Carlos Ascues will remain with the team in 2018. He is not leaving.

Did playing the Copa against Boca change your plans?
The truth is, I have a contract. I can't deny that there was a possibility of returning abroad, but I am drawn to the challenge of playing the Libertadores and making history against great rivals like Boca and Palmeiras.

► Leao Butrón renewed with Alianza Lima for one more season and will play at the age of 41

Is the Copa a great showcase to make the leap to the national team?
It is my desire, since I was part of the group in the Qualifiers and I will seek my opportunity. If the coach (Gareca) didn't call me up, maybe it was because of my lack of continuity or because I didn't reach my best level. So it depends on me to work harder and try to be taken into account for the World Cup.

Returning to Matute in the middle of the year was a wise decision...
Yes, because winning the championship has meant a lot to me, especially because I am a fan. With my teammates, we have formed a great family and now we will seek to achieve the back-to-back championship.

What message do you have for the fans?
Enjoy this Christmas with your families and never stop supporting us. Next year, we will have many challenges together.

By Alexander Bustillos

► 2018 Signings: high-profile transfers, departures, and rumors in Peruvian football