Claudio Echeverri completes Bayer Leverkusen move! Wonderkid leaves Man City for Bundesliga loan

Manchester City FC v Al Ain FC: Group G - FIFA Club World Cup 2025

Manchester City’s teenage star Claudio Echeverri has completed a season-long loan move to Bayer Leverkusen. The 19-year-old Argentine talent, who joined City from River Plate in 2024, will spend the campaign in Germany under new coach Erik ten Hag. The deal is a straight loan with no option to buy as City look to give the playmaker valuable first-team experience.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Leverkusen have confirmed Echeverri has joined Die Werkself on loan for the 2025-26 season from City. The Bundesliga side beat interest from Borussia Dortmund, Lazio and Girona to secure his signature. The move contains no buy option, ensuring the Citizens retain long-term control of the Argentine’s future.

Welcome to Lev, Claudio Echeverri! 😈🇦🇷The 19-year-old Argentine joins on a one-year loan from Premier League side @ManCity. 🖤❤️ pic.twitter.com/DEo67K8T0M

Liverpool v Bournemouth - Premier League

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Echeverri arrives at Leverkusen at a key moment, with the club undergoing change after Xabi Alonso’s exit and Wirtz’s record move to Liverpool. The Argentine playmaker is expected to slot in as a creative replacement for the German in midfield. Leverkusen see the deal as a chance to rebuild their squad while giving the teenager regular game time.

DID YOU KNOW?

Echeverri joined City from River Plate in January 2024 but initially stayed in Argentina on loan. He has since made three appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side, including his debut in the FA Cup final and a goal in the Club World Cup. Now, he heads to Germany hoping to establish himself in one of Europe’s top leagues.

Manchester City FC v Al Ain FC: Group G - FIFA Club World Cup 2025

WHAT NEXT FOR ECHEVERRI?

The 19-year-old could be in line to make his Bundesliga debut this weekend against Hoffenheim. He will aim to quickly adapt to Ten Hag’s system and prove himself so he can be involved in Guardiola's squad next season.