Where Will Claudio Echeverri Fit In Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City? A Detailed Analysis On His Premier League Future

Manchester City has got their man, with the club announcing the signing of Argentine wonder kid Claudi Echeverri. The Cityzens have struck a deal with River Plate worth $15.6 million, plus add-ons to see the eighteen-year-old move to the Etihad in January 2025. Despite signing a five-year deal with the side, Echeverri will spend the next 12 months on loan at his former club to get the needed game time for his development. However, it will be intriguing to see how the Argentine fits into Pep Guardiola‘s system come January 2025. Similar to Julian Alvarez’s arrival, Pep gets another man in his kitty!

Echeverri was being scouted by multiple European heavyweights following his impressive performances. The Argentine then stamped his mark as a prospect last year, putting on a showcase performance for Argentina’s U17 side. While Echeverri loves playing as an attacking midfielder/left winger, Manchester City boasts some of the top talents in the position. The eighteen-year-old will have to go through multiple roadblocks to secure his place in the first team. So is he a potential replacement for Kevin De Bruyne in the future? 

What is the best position Pep Guardiola will deploy for Claudio Echeverri at Manchester City?

While Claudio Echeverri loves playing as a central attacking midfielder, fans know Pep Guardiola for using players in two positions. Even the likes of Josko Gvardiol, who excelled as a center-back before moving to Manchester City, has established himself as a left-back in recent months. Fellow Argentine star Julian Alvarez has also seen a similar change in his game, with the number nine now playing as a second striker.

His case matches Julian Alvarez’s. Similar to his compatriot, Echeverri might have to struggle to make his way into the first team and is likely to get the nod in case of an extended injury to players above him in the pecking order. With Kevin De Bruyne and Julian Alvarez occupying the central position in the midfield, Guardiola is likely to use the Argentine on the left flank.

Meanwhile, Jeremy Doku has stamped his mark on the left wing in recent months, climbing over Jack Grealish. The position already has a lot of competition, and Echeverri could struggle to make room for himself. However, shifting to the right side could be an adroit move for the youngster. With doubts over Bernardo Silva’s future, Echeverri can make his mark as a backup to Phil Foden. Yet, the question remains about his ability to make a smooth transition from South American football to European soccer.

READ MORE: Sergio Aguero Claims Claudio Echeverri Will Face an ‘Uphill Battle’ As Manchester City Officially Signs Him for $15.9M

Does Echeverri have what it takes to perform in the Premier League?

Claudio Echeverri has left his mark on U17 soccer with the Argentine star, putting stellar performances for Albiceleste’s youth team. The player has scored 13 goals in 22 outings with the side. However, delivering in the Premier League is a different ball game. The league is one of the most challenging competitions in the world, with many big names failing to make an impact.

Echeverri will have a lot of pressure on his shoulders, with fans expecting the player to hit the ground running. The upcoming twelve months at River Plate will be crucial for the player, providing him enough time to prepare for his stint with Manchester City. The eighteen-year-old has all the makings of a superstar, but only time will tell if he can deliver up to the surrounding hype.

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