Grêmio midfielder Noriega reported back to the club for pre-season training in January 2026 weighing approximately nine kilograms over his ideal playing weight, according to Zero Hora. The situation came to light following recent remarks from head coach Renato Portaluppi regarding the physical conditioning of the squad upon his arrival.

Contratado in August 2025 under then-manager Mano Menezes, the Peruvian midfielder required several weeks at the start of the 2026 campaign to reach optimal physical shape under Luís Castro, who succeeded Menezes before Portaluppi returned to the bench. Portaluppi addressed the squad’s conditioning in a press conference without directly naming the player, questioning the scouting and evaluation process prior to his signing.

“A player came to Grêmio nine kilograms overweight. Is that possible? They didn’t analyze the player, who is now at his correct weight and is a good player, by the way. But then I ask you: does no one look at who they are signing? Do they not check the player’s profile?” Portaluppi questioned publicly.

Internal Monitoring and Disciplinary Rules

Under the previous coaching staff, tracking player conditioning was handled entirely by internal departments rather than directly by the manager. Portaluppi instituted a direct reporting line for physical metrics upon taking charge, allowing the coaching staff to monitor weight fluctuations closely.

The manager also outlined strict disciplinary measures enforced at the club. Portaluppi stated that weight standards are tied directly to team rules, alongside punctuality and conduct, with financial penalties and other sanctions applied to any member of the squad who breaches the established limits.

“It’s subject to punishment, obviously. When I arrive at clubs, especially at the beginning of the season, I hand out a paper with some rules that I give to the group. It applies to everyone. There is expulsion, delay, weight, absence, heavy fine,” Portaluppi said.

Jovane Cabral Conditioning Case

Noriega was not the only member of the squad to register above-target metrics upon arrival. Winger Jovane Cabral reported to the club two kilograms over his ideal weight following his transfer after the World Cup. The Cape Verdean international quickly shed the excess weight, though he is currently sidelined with a muscular injury.

With the departure of former football department vice-president Antônio Dutra Júnior and the promotion of Rafael Lima—while other directors remain in their posts—Grêmio’s management structure has undergone minor shifts. Zero Hora reported that neither Noriega nor Cabral is currently overweight. Noriega featured in the match against Cruzeiro, while Cabral continues his recovery ahead of future squad selections.