Ernesto Arakaki highlights the importance of identity in Alianza Lima for success.

Ernesto Arakaki, former footballer and current figure of Alianza Lima, has shared his perspective on the club's current situation, as well as the identity that seems to be lacking in the team. In a recent interview, Arakaki reflected on the importance of the classics, especially the one between Alianza Lima and Sporting Cristal, and how these matches represent not only a sports rivalry but also a struggle for the legacy of the clubs. "It is always said that Cristal-Alianza matches are modern classics. They are big teams with a lot of tradition, history, and fan base," commented Arakaki, making it clear that despite the rivalry with Universitario, Cristal also holds a special place in Alianza's history. These matches, which attract crowds and generate great expectations, are crucial not only for the standings but also for the identity of the clubs. When analyzing Alianza's performance in the current season, the former defender expressed concern about the team's inability to defeat its direct rivals. "Alianza hasn't beaten any of its direct rivals this year. It's hard to understand," he admitted. Although he recognizes that the squad has undeniable quality, he believes that the lack of a clear identity may be affecting the results on the field. "Alianza has the best squad, but this can work for or against you, depending on how you put it together," he emphasized. The identity of the club is a recurring theme in his statements. Arakaki argues that the characteristic playing style of Alianza has been diluted, as "there's a lack of that touch of aliancismo in their game." He asserts that while there are talented players, it is essential for the club's philosophy to remain intact and for new signings to reflect the values that have historically defined the team. The former player also stressed the importance of having figures who have grown up in Alianza. He mentioned Jefferson Farfán, who recently expressed that the lack of players trained at the club affects the connection with the fans. "In my time, there was always a core group of players who upheld the values, identity, and mystique of Alianza," Arakaki pointed out, adding that this is a responsibility that must be embraced in every new cycle of the club. Regarding sports management, the former defender called for greater coherence in the decisions being made. "Alianza is experiencing an economic boom, but it seems to be disorienting. It has lost its way," he stated. This deviation from the essence of the club is what he believes needs to be corrected for Alianza to become competitive again on both the national and international stages. As for the continuity of coach Alejandro Restrepo, Arakaki reiterated his belief in long-term projects and the need for consistency. "Coherence is what brings results," he argued. The lack of connection between sports decisions and the identity of the club may be the cause of its poor performance. Finally, Arakaki expressed optimism about the possibility of improving the club's situation, provided that decisions align with its history and tradition. "It is essential to seek, through that identity, to take a step forward," he concluded, highlighting that the club's future depends not only on economic resources but also on how these are applied to keep the essence of Alianza Lima alive. In a moment where the pressure for results is high, Ernesto Arakaki's voice resonates as a call to reflect on what it truly means to be part of Alianza Lima. A reminder that success in football is not just a matter of talent, but also of history, identity, and shared values.