The UD Almería player says: 'I feel at home in Almería.' On the sporting side, the Portuguese stresses: 'I've come here to help and every year I like to improve on the previous one.'
There's a strong competition in the squad and anyone can play in the team without affecting its performance,' states UD Almería left-back Lelo.
The Portuguese defender, one of the last players to join the Club during the summer transfer window, visited the UDA Radio studios to discuss both the sporting and personal aspects of his new life in Almería.
On that note, the Lusitanian had no hesitation in saying: 'I feel at home in Almería. I come from a small town in Algarve (Portugal), with a similar climate, so adapting has not been difficult. This is not usually a problem for me. I adapt quickly. On top of that, there are Portuguese and Brazilian players here, which makes everything easier. From the first day, everyone welcomed me very well.'
The Olhão native joined UD Almería from Sporting Braga, with whom he played in the UEFA Europa League. 'For me, signing for this Club was a dream because I was coming from a more modest club and on top of that, I had the opportunity to play in European competition. Now I've taken on another challenge at UD Almería.'
Asked about the differences between Portuguese and Spanish football, where he is making his debut, he explained: 'Above all, the intensity. In Spain, it's higher both in training and in matches. There's a lot of counter-attacking football. That's the biggest difference.'
Lelo also explained: 'I'm a full-back, so I have to defend, but I really like getting forward and attacking down the flank. Last season I produced 8 assists and every year I strive to improve on the previous one. And if I can score as well, even better. I've come here to help, just like the rest of my team-mates.' He enjoys García Pimienta's style of football because, as he put it: 'It's about having the ball and being attacking, which suits me.'
The 26-year-old believes UD Almería are playing brilliantly and highlighted the team's run of clean sheets. On this, he said: 'It's vital not to concede because that puts you closer to winning,' adding: 'Now we enjoy defending.'