Man City Strikes Deal: Rising Star Heads to Former Man Utd Boss on Loan
Manchester City have reached an agreement to send promising talent Claudio Echeverri on loan to Bayer Leverkusen for the 2025–26 campaign, where he'll be coached by former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag.
Echeverri transferred from River Plate in January 2024, initially remaining with the Argentine club on loan through the end of that year. He officially became part of Pep Guardiola's team at the start of 2025 but only featured in the FA Cup final, where City suffered a 1–0 defeat to Crystal Palace.
The 19-year-old forward also had a short appearance in City's season finale in the Premier League and subsequently played during a FIFA Club World Cup group match against Al Ain, netting a goal in the commanding 6–0 victory to mark his first strike before sustaining a serious injury.
Nevertheless, given the limited playing time expected at the Etihad Stadium this term, Echeverri is poised to join Leverkusen for the season, according to The Athletic. The arrangement excludes any purchase clause or mandatory buy option for the young star, while City will collect a loan fee for the temporary transfer.
Borussia Dortmund had made overtures to City regarding Echeverri, presenting a loan proposal with a buying option. However, this was quickly turned down as the eight-time Premier League winners consider him a promising talent for years to come.
Leverkusen have successfully secured Echeverri, who will now be guided by ex-Ajax manager Ten Hag, replacing Xabi Alonso at the BayArena. The Dutch tactician claimed victory in his inaugural competitive match with the German club last Friday, defeating Sonnenhof Großaspach 4–0 in the DFB-Pokal.
Echeverri's transfer serves the interests of all involved parties, with Leverkusen obtaining a promising prospect, the player gaining crucial development opportunities, and City meeting Guardiola's preference for a more compact roster.
"[It's] excessive—too many individuals," Guardiola commented about his squad numbers in a recent discussion. "I prefer a substantial squad to compete across all tournaments, but I don't want to exclude players from matchdays. It's unhealthy. You cannot foster a positive environment or spirit for competition.
"Every player must believe they have opportunities to contribute and assist. The club has been aware since last season, this isn't breaking news, but the circumstances are as they stand. Over the coming fortnight, discussions will occur with players and representatives to identify solutions."