Echeverri Shines With First Goal But Suffers Ankle Scare In Club World Cup Win

Manchester City are assessing the fitness of Claudio Echeverri after the 19-year-old was forced off with an ankle injury during his first start for the club.

Echeverri opened his City account with a free-kick goal in a 6-0 win over Al Ain in Atlanta, which secured qualification to the last 16 of the Club World Cup. However, he was substituted at half-time after twisting his ankle.

Manager Pep Guardiola described Echeverri as “a little bit sore” but praised his performance and attitude. “That’s why he could not continue, but he’s an incredible player – a big, big talent in small spaces – and I’m happy for him,” Guardiola said.

Guardiola also highlighted Echeverri’s commitment to improvement, explaining: “Since he arrived, he has regularly stayed after training to practise free-kicks on his own. The more you practise, the more chances you have. It was a fantastic goal.”