Overview
- Journalists in Brazil report that Mano Menezes has decided to deploy Noriega permanently as a central defender.
- Signed from Alianza Lima as a defensive midfielder, the 24-year-old was tried in multiple roles before settling in defense.
- The shift was accelerated by Fabián Balbuena’s injury, with Noriega’s improved form cited as justification for the move.
- Noriega has appeared in 13 matches for Grêmio, logging 1,114 minutes, and has played center back in 10 of those games.
- Coverage in Brazil adds that he is expected to remain in the back line for the rest of the season, with continuity into 2026 seen as likely if Menezes stays.