Claudio Echeverri Joins Girona on Loan from Manchester City
Manchester City have confirmed that Claudio Echeverri has joined Girona on loan until the end of the season, pending international clearance.
The 20-year-old attacking midfielder struggled for game time during a six-month loan at Bayer Leverkusen, after an encouraging pre-season with Manchester City’s first team last summer. Echeverri originally joined City from River Plate in January 2024 and was immediately loaned back to his boyhood club for a further year, before arriving in England in January 2025 — a pathway similar to fellow Argentine Julian Alvarez.
Echeverri made a surprise senior debut for City in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace at Wembley, nearly levelling the score with a lively cameo. He also impressed at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States last summer, scoring a free-kick in City’s 6-0 win over Al Ain, before moving on loan to Leverkusen for the 2025-26 campaign.
Following a frustrating spell in Germany, City have redirected Echeverri to Girona, where he will reunite with fellow Manchester City loanee Vitor Reis. The club had originally earmarked Girona for Echeverri last summer, but a push for a Bundesliga move delayed that plan. Guardiola and City officials will now monitor his progress closely in La Liga, with an eye on integrating him back into the squad ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Reports indicate that Pep Guardiola was displeased with Echeverri and his representatives’ insistence on moving to Germany last summer, particularly as young players typically follow the club’s preferred development path. The Girona loan aligns with Manchester City’s strategy to provide competitive playing experience in top European leagues, supporting the Argentine’s long-term development.
City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, continues to oversee a carefully structured pathway for academy and young first-team talents, and Echeverri’s move represents a continuation of this approach. The midfielder will be expected to gain valuable minutes in La Liga, develop his tactical understanding, and demonstrate readiness for senior football back at the Etihad Stadium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why has Claudio Echeverri joined Girona?
After limited game time at Bayer Leverkusen, City want him to gain competitive minutes in La Liga and continue his development in a senior European league.
Will he play alongside any other City loanees?
Yes, Echeverri will link up with Vitor Reis, another Manchester City loanee at Girona.
Was this loan City’s first choice?
Yes, Girona was City’s preferred destination last summer, but Echeverri’s representatives opted for a Bundesliga move instead.
How long is the loan deal?
The loan will run until the end of the 2025-26 season, subject to international clearance.
What is Guardiola’s involvement in the move?
Pep Guardiola and City officials are monitoring Echeverri’s development closely to ensure the loan aligns with his long-term progression.
Conclusion
Claudio Echeverri’s loan to Girona marks the next stage in his development under Manchester City’s structured pathway for young talents. With opportunities to gain consistent first-team minutes in La Liga and continue growing alongside Vitor Reis, Echeverri has the platform to refine his game and prepare for a potential role in City’s senior squad in the future.
