Juan Reynoso is no longer the head coach of Melgar, the Peruvian club announced Saturday, March 21, 2026. The decision comes amid a recent slump in form for the Arequipa-based team, and following elimination from the Copa Sudamericana.
Melgar officially confirmed Reynoso’s departure through a club statement, expressing gratitude for his contributions, particularly leading the team to a championship in 2015. “Juan always will have the affection and recognition of the club for the championship obtained in 2015, as well as for his contribution to the growth of the institution during the years he was here. Melgar always will be his home,” the statement read.
The club acknowledged a mutual agreement was reached to end Reynoso’s tenure. Melgar has struggled recently, failing to secure a win in their last five Liga 1 matches, including a 1-1 draw with ADT on March 21, 2026. This poor run of results, coupled with their Copa Sudamericana exit, prompted the change in leadership.
Reynoso had previously voiced his dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, stating after a recent match against Atlético Grau, “It does not fully represent me, but You’ll see moments that it does. Obviously, you have to sustain those moments. My teams have always won because there is competition. If there is, I must raise it from individual competitiveness.”
Víctor Balta will capture the reins as interim manager, supported by Carlos San Martín and Matías de la Vega. RPP reports that Balta, a former Melgar player, will lead the team while the club searches for a permanent replacement.
Melgar currently sits seventh in the Torneo Apertura standings with 11 points, after the draw against ADT. They will face Cusco on April 4th. La República notes that Melgar had enjoyed three consecutive wins earlier in the Apertura, but their form dipped significantly, failing to win in their subsequent six matches (five in Liga 1 and one in the Copa Sudamericana).
Infobae adds that the club expressed their gratitude to Reynoso and his technical staff for their operate, commitment, and dedication during their time with Melgar, wishing them the best in their future endeavors.
