Argentine rising star Claudio ‘Diablito’ Echeverri confirmed in his first statements as a Manchester City player that his compatriot and club legend, Sergio ‘Kun’ Agüero, played a crucial role in convincing him to sign for the English club.

“I spoke with Sergio Agüero. I also talked to Martín Demichelis. They told me that City is an incredible club with great players and a beautiful history. I knew about the special bond between Argentina and Manchester City, and Agüero, in particular, stands out,” Echeverri said.

The 19-year-old attacking midfielder signed with City in January 2024 but remained on loan at River Plate to complete his development before making the full leap to the Premier League.

Echeverri Becomes Manchester City’s 12th Argentine Player

The Diablito emphasized the impact that Argentine players have had at Manchester City, including stars like Pablo Zabaleta, Carlos Tévez, Kun Agüero, Willy Caballero, Nicolás Otamendi, Martín Demichelis, Máximo Perrone, and Julián Álvarez.

“He is a legend here at Manchester City because of everything he achieved and the incredible player he was. I used to watch him play, and honestly, it’s an amazing feeling to be here,” Echeverri added about Kun Agüero.

The young midfielder will wear the number 30 jersey, the same number that Nicolás Otamendi used during his time at the club, where he played 210 matches over five seasons.

A Standout Performance in the U-20 South American Championship

Echeverri arrives at City after an impressive campaign with Argentina in the U-20 South American Championship in Venezuela, where La Albiceleste finished as runners-up. He was the tournament’s second top scorer with six goals, only behind Colombian Néiser Villarreal.

“It was a great experience, and I’m really happy. The team did a fantastic job. We couldn’t win the tournament, but I’m proud of our performance. Individually, I think I did well, finishing as the second top scorer with six goals,” he commented.

The Argentine playmaker acknowledged that the tournament was a key moment to showcase his talent and served as extra motivation before his move to Manchester City.

“That tournament helped me show my football skills, which is what I love most. I always try to play well and show what I can do. Coming here afterward gave me even more motivation. It was exciting to think about what was coming next,” Echeverri explained.

Inspired by Manchester City’s Wingers

Echeverri also praised some of his future teammates, particularly Jérémy Doku and Savinho, two players who have impressed in the Premier League with their pace and dribbling ability.

“They are very dynamic, really tricky with the ball. They always take on defenders and go forward every time they receive the ball,” said Diablito.

With his talent, vision, and admiration for the history of Argentine players at Manchester City, Claudio Echeverri aims to establish himself as one of the club’s most promising young stars, following in the footsteps of Agüero and other Argentine greats in English football.