Check with her by around Part 1, during Chapter 8 or Chapter 9, once Byleth is at least Level 15, and Manuela should have the option to be recruited into your group. IMPORTANT: If you do not recruit Manuela before the end of Chapter 12, and the end of Part One, she may not return to be recruited in Part Two.

Can you recruit Manuela and Hanneman?

8 Hanneman & Manuela

There is a friendly rivalry amongst the professors that is most notable during the mock battles. Coincidentally, after the mock battle at the Field of the Eagle and Lion, both Hanneman and Manuela can be recruited at the same time as long as the player is at least level 15.

Is Manuela a good unit?

Manuela is another that seems a solid fit for a Dancer role, given she enjoys it and has some great starting stats. Her Speed and Charisma are high and her Dexterity is good. ... Perhaps the strongest case for making Manuela a Dancer is that she was built to be one in terms of her stats, abilities, and personality.