Former international footballer Reimond Manco has sharply criticized the management of the Peruvian Football Federation, blaming the governing body for the national team's ongoing struggles following a heavy defeat to the United States.
The Peruvian national team lost 4-1 to the United States in their most recent international friendly match, which took place during the current FIFA international window.
Speaking on the sports program Juego Cruzado, Manco analyzed the current state of the national side, commonly known as the Bicolor. He directed his frustration at the leadership of the Peruvian Football Federation, arguing that the issues facing the team extend far beyond the players on the pitch.
The former attacking midfielder stated that Peru could perform better regardless of which players were available, pointing to the federation executives as a primary factor hindering the team's progress. Manco suggested the side would improve with the current squad or any other group of players, provided the current directors were no longer in charge. He added that the problems run deeper than squad selections or individual call ups.
Manco is a former Peruvian international who emerged as a standout talent in his youth, participating in youth World Cup tournaments before playing for clubs in Europe and South America. He is now a prominent voice in sports media, and his comments reflect wider frustrations following the recent heavy loss.
Management and administrative decisions
Manco was emphatic when discussing the administration of the Peruvian Football Federation, holding the directors responsible for the team's current poor form. He attributed the struggles directly to bad decision making within the sports organization.
During his television appearance, Manco described the situation as a cancer that has taken hold within Peruvian football and specifically within the federation. He indicated that the problem will be difficult to resolve because these directors are the individuals selecting players, managing call ups, and closing doors on certain athletes. He also noted that when federation officials speak publicly, they present a narrative that everything is fine.
The Peruvian Football Federation is the governing body for the sport in the South American nation. It oversees all levels of the national team and manages the domestic league structure. The leadership of the federation often faces intense scrutiny from local media and fans, particularly when the senior men's team underperforms in international competition or qualification campaigns.
Attacking difficulties exposed
The 4-1 thrashing by the United States took place as national teams used the designated FIFA window to test their squads in exhibition matches. The United States men's national team frequently hosts South American opposition in such friendlies to prepare for competitive fixtures.
According to Manco, the heavy defeat against the United States simply laid bare tactical difficulties that were already present in previous fixtures. He stated that a severe result like this was bound to happen eventually.
The former player observed that the Peruvian team had managed to escape heavy punishment in their recent outings, but he stressed that the side lacks any clear offensive strategy. He concluded his tactical analysis by pointing out that football matches are won by scoring goals and maintaining a consistent attacking threat, something he feels the current setup fails to execute.
The Peruvian national team has historically been known for a technical, possession based style of play, but the recent friendly highlighted significant defensive vulnerabilities and an inability to create consistent scoring opportunities.
Peru will have an immediate opportunity to respond to the defeat on the pitch. The team is scheduled to face Mexico on Tuesday, September 29, at 8:00 p.m. Peruvian time. The international friendly match will be held at the Sports Illustrated Stadium in New Jersey, United States.
