Manchester City completed the signing of Claudio Echeverri from River Plate in January and loaned him back to the Argentine club in the same window.
The attacking midfielder has impressed this year, scoring four goals and registering five assists from 37 matches in all competitions. His temporary deal expires at the end of next month.
River Plate have been trying to extend the 18-year-old’s loan stay. Earlier this week, D Sports reported Manchester City have denied their request to have Echeverri beyond this year.
It was also said the Citizens have made a ‘conclusive decision’ for Echeverri to arrive at the Etihad in January. The Argentina U23 international managed an assist each in the last two matches, including one against Instituto ACC on Thursday.
After the tie, River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo heaped praise on the Manchester City owned player and his comments are relayed by TyC Sports.
The coach didn’t hold back when making it clear that he would love to retain Echeverri for at least another year. Gallardo believes the youngster needs to continue his development in Argentina.
Echeverri made his way into River Plate’s first team last year and made 44 appearances so far.
“Some players are ready to make the jump to Europe and others are not,” he said.
“Claudio is a very young boy, he still needs to develop in Argentinian football, he still needs to finish developing his physique and then he has all the technical qualities to be a great footballer. He’s in a process of development which is normal, he is only 18 years old.
“I hope we can keep him for another year and that he leaves in better conditions. Today it is clear that City have already paid his fee, he is on loan until the end of the year and River have to accept it.”
“If City give us the chance, I’d love to keep him for another year, but it’s not up to me.”
Taking Gallardo’s comments and recent reports into account, Echeverri will return to Pep Guardiola’s side in January.
