Manchester City have finally welcomed Claudio Echeverri at the club – more than a year after having signed the Argentine wonderkid from River Plate.
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Echeverri joins Man City squad Joined the club in January 2024 before going on loanReveals conversation with Aguero before joining CityFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Echeverri was sent back on loan to the Argentine powerhouses after Manchester City acquired him from River Plate in the winter of 2024 for a reported fee of £12.5 million ($15.7 million) plus add-ons. The youngster has now joined the Premier League champions' squad this February, more than a year after signing on the dotted line and could play a part in the rest of their season, as Pep Guardiola's side continue to underwhelm.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Echeverri is unlikely to be able to start training with Manchester City right away after having suffered an injury during an U-20 South American Championship clash for Argentina against Brazil. Nonetheless, the highly-rated attacking midfielder will be a part of the future at Etihad Stadium. In his first interview with club media, Echeverri revealed that he also talked to City and Argentina legend Sergio Aguero before deciding to join the eight-time Premier League champions.
Getty ImagesWHAT ECHEVERRI SAID
Speaking to club media, Echeverri said: "I've spoken to [Sergio] Aguero, I knew about it [the relationship between Argentina and Manchester City]. Aguero, in particular, stands out. He's a legend here at Manchester City because of everything he achieved and the incredible player he was."
The Argentine also talked about joining Manchester City and added: "Football has been my life, and my dream was to play for one of the best teams in Europe. Today I am closer to that dream. Manchester City are one of the best teams in the world. Not only do they win trophies, they play the game so beautifully. They are an example to everyone – they show people how to play football the best way.
"My family and I are so proud to be here. My focus now is on working as hard as I can in training to show the manager and his staff I am good enough to be part of this team."
WHAT NEXT FOR ECHEVERRI?
The 19-year-old has received plenty of plaudits from a number of key figures, with Manchester City sporting director Txiki Begiristain calling him "one of the finest talents to emerge from South America." City will be hoping he can live up to his potential at the club and enjoy a big future in Manchester.