Brazilian coaches are famous for wanting to have their teams play the ball more than being ultra-defensive, which is what Leal is cultivating at Pirates.
“The coach has been talking a lot about the need to be confident when you have the ball and the fact that we need to be communicating more on the field,” says Manyisa, who will continue to slot in to a twin central midfield partnership with Andile Jali.
“With the ball on your feet the coach wants to see a smile on your face, which shows how confident you are. The coach always talks about confidence when you have the ball because he wants to see us playing.
“This game is centred on the ball after all so it is important that you enjoy playing the ball. He also emphasises the importance of always trying to keep position when we have the ball for as long as possible so that we make life difficult for the opponent,” says Manyisa.
Having set high standards for himself last season, the 23 year-old wants is aware of the expectations on his shoulders.
“I just need to keep on working hard so that I improve on my game. I believe that for as long as I maintain the same attitude and apply myself the same way then I am on the right track.
“I got the rest that I needed during the past off season and now it is time to work. It is also a good thing that I spent time with my family because last season I didn’t get to spend as much time with them as I was always busy seeing I was always in the team.
“Pre-season has been challenging, but also exciting at the same time as it has allowed us the opportunity to prepare for what we stand to face ahead of the road. The new coach has also made sure that we keep on working going forward,” he says.
On the Carling Black Label Cup being played on Saturday at FNB Stadium where fans get to vote for the players they want to play, Manyisa says they will have to respect the supporters.
“This weekend the fans have the power and have to listen to them because they are in charge!”