Manchester City youngster Claudio Echeverri has admitted he wouldn’t mind staying at Benfica for longer than originally planned.
The 20-year-old is currently on loan at the Portuguese giants, after moving in the summer as Manchester City look to get him established in Europe.
He moved to the Etihad in 2024 as one of the rising stars in Argentine football but has so far struggled to replicate that in Europe.
Loan spells at Bayer Leverkusen and Girona over the last two years have failed to produce anything of note. Indeed, he managed just one goal and one assist in 28 games combined for both clubs.
Benfica happiness
He’s yet to really get going at Benfica this season either. His four appearances to date have yielded two assists, but he’s spent just 142 minutes on the pitch. He’s yet to start a league game for Marco Silva’s side either, or over 30 minutes in Liga Portugal.
The winger should have his debut goal to add to those numbers but instead saw that taken off him and credited as an own goal. He’s not concerned, though.
“I’ve just realized that the goal was credited to the defender, not me,” he told Mais Futebol.
“But hey, no problem. Honestly, I’m just really happy for the team. Three wins in three matches… hopefully, we can keep this going.”
Longer stay?
He instead, is hoping to continue a strong tradition of Argentines succeeding at Benfica. And he’s already hoping that his current deal could be extended.
“In Europe, Benfica is one of the best clubs for welcoming Argentines,” he added.
“Many great Argentine players have come through here. I hope that Prestianni and I can follow in the footsteps of those Argentines who found success here. I’m very happy to be here.”
“Yes, of course (he could stay). But one step at a time—we’ll see what happens. Still, it would be wonderful.”
