Peru Announces Squad for Russia & Chile Friendlies, Spotlights Emerging Talent & Veteran Reinventions
Saint Petersburg & Sochi – Interim coach Manuel Barreto has named a 28-man squad for Peru’s upcoming friendlies against Russia on Wednesday in Saint Petersburg and Chile six days later in Sochi, a roster blending youth with experienced players enjoying career renaissances. The call-ups signal a potential shift in direction for the national team as Barreto nears the end of his tenure.
Among the notable inclusions is Fabio Gruber, a German-born player of Peruvian descent, who has waited four years for his first national team call-up. Gruber, currently playing for SV Elversberg in Germany’s 3. Liga,is being touted as a potential future leader,with some observers drawing parallels to German legend Franz Beckenbauer – a nickname already circulating as “the new Kaiser.” He is also one of seven players under the age of 23 selected, indicating a focus on developing new talent.
The squad also features surprising returns for veterans. Forward Adrián Ugarriza, 28, has revitalized his career with Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona FC in Israel, and Melgar’s top scorer, Jhonny Vidales, 33, has finally earned a spot on the national team. Goalkeeper Diego Romero and attacker Bryan Reyna, who have seen limited playing time recently, are also included, alongside Yordy Reyna, whose inclusion is speculated to be influenced by his current residence and play in Russia.
Adding to the mix are five players invited as sparring partners: César Bautista (18), Rafael Guzmán (17), Jair Moretti (18) from the local tournament, and two ”Eurocausas” – Philipp Eisele (18) from German side Eintracht Frankfurt and francesco Andrealli (18) from Italian club Como 1907.Piero Quispe, now playing for Sydney FC in Australia, also returns, as does veteran goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, the undisputed starter for the Peruvian national team.
These friendlies will serve as Manuel Barreto’s final matches as interim coach.
