𝓤𝓷𝓲𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓝𝓮𝔀𝓼

Long before he was plotting Colombia’s World Cup, Nestor Lorenzo was making his name in Peru. After 15 years as Jose Pekerman’s faithful assistant, the Argentine took his first job in management not at home but at FBC Melgar, in Arequipa.

He made it count, rebuilding a mid-table side, winning the 2022 Apertura title and steering the club deep into the Copa Sudamericana before Colombia came calling.

Melgar’s supporters sent him off with banners and gratitude, and he is remembered warmly in the city to this day. Fitting for a country with a long love affair with Argentine coaches — from Ricardo Gareca downwards.

Lorenzo is just the latest to pass through Peru on his way to bigger things.