Mano Menezes unveiled by Peru, cites Neymar and aims to restore identity | OneFootball

Mano Menezes was unveiled on Thursday night as Peru’s new head coach, addressing the challenges ahead and reflecting on his Brazil stint. According to Globo.com, he cited Neymar when discussing graduates from Brazil’s 2011 under-20 group, adding that he could still be at the next World Cup if certain conditions are met.

He recalled attending the 2011 South American under-20 event in Arequipa and promoting six or seven players to Brazil’s senior side within six months. He said that rebuild was so significant that some from that cohort remain in contention for the next World Cup, naming Danilo, Alex Sandro, Casemiro and Neymar. He added that Neymar’s chances depend on his durability and, in his view, easing off the dancing.

Fresh from ending his spell at Grêmio at the end of last season, the 63-year-old has agreed to lead Peru, replacing Ibañez, who was dismissed in September 2025. He spoke of rebuilding a project, recovering the country’s football identity and the historic Brazil-Peru connection, noting past Brazilian coaches Didí, Tim and Paulo Autuori.

He returns to international management after more than a decade, having led Brazil between 2010 and 2012 following the South Africa World Cup. Menezes said Peruvian players are similar to Brazilians in their ball carrying, which he believes will help.

He outlined a positional approach that builds from the back, selecting players who can construct with quality, win the ball and handle transitions. For him, the task goes beyond simple defensive or attacking labels.

Source: Globo.com