Today, the North Carolina Football Club announced the re-signing of defender Nelson Blanco Flores and midfielder Luis Arriaga for the 2022 season, with options for 2023. Flores, re-joined North Carolina FC at the beginning of the 2021 season after stints in San Diego and Oakland. He made 27 appearances for the club in 2021.
I was not following the club when Nelson was with the the club in 2017-2018 but from the opening whistle of the 2021 season I was drawn to the energy he brought on the field and off.
Most recently, he was called to play for the El Salvador National Team for an international friendly against Bolivia.
Midfielder, Luis Arriaga made 22 appearances for the club in 2021 and was Captain for 2 games. I have enjoyed watching Luis throughout the season as well and look forward to seeing how his attacking style translates to greater play development in our offensive third.
“I’m extremely excited to bring back Nelson Flores and Luis Arriaga to North Carolina FC,” said Head Coach John Bradford. “Nelson has grown well into his role as a left back and I’m sure his development will continue to accelerate with NCFC and internationally with El Salvador. Luis is a tremendous competitor and will build on a great 2021 with even more responsibility in our midfield in 2022. We are happy to welcome these players back as we continue to build a strong roster for the upcoming season.”
Press Release, North Carolina Football Club 12/1/21
