Manual literally translates to "manual" or "handbook." It's an interesting word choice in a song about heartbreak because it's not typically associated with emotions.
In the lyrics, the singer laments, "Porque nadie me dio un manual pa' olvidarme de tu amor" (Because nobody gave me a manual to forget your love). This metaphorical use of "manual" highlights the singer's confusion and frustration, wishing there was a step-by-step guide to get over a broken heart, making it a unique and relatable expression of emotional struggle.
Have you ever felt completely lost after a breakup, wishing there was a guide to help you get over someone? That's exactly what The La Planta and Pushi are singing about in "El Manual"! Our singer is totally fed up, declaring, "Se acabó, nadie vuelve a jugar de nuevo / Como tú lo hiciste conmigo" [It's over, no one will play games again / Like you did with me]. They're confused and hurt, asking, "¿Pa' qué prometiste estar juntos?" [Why did you promise to be together?], because now they're stuck without a "manual" to forget their love.
It sounds like this relationship was a real rollercoaster! The singer admits, "Como un tonto te creía" [Like a fool, I believed you] every time their partner said they loved them. They never imagined it would be so "problemático" [problematic] and wonder where all the "química" [chemistry] went. Now, they're done being played, firmly stating, "Yo no soy juguete de nadie más" [I'm not anyone's toy anymore]. It's a powerful anthem for anyone who's ready to move on and reclaim their independence after a confusing breakup!