Echeverri earns ‘Phenomenal’ praise after Barcelona impact

Claudio Echeverri is rapidly becoming the talk of Girona after playing a decisive role in their 2-1 victory over Barcelona on 15 February 2026.

The Manchester City loanee did not start at Montilivi, but his 27-minute cameo shifted the momentum of the contest. Echeverri was involved 14 times after coming on, created two chances and crucially battled for possession in the build-up to Girona’s late winner.

Girona’s victory was one of the standout results of the La Liga weekend, and Echeverri’s impact did not go unnoticed.

Speaking after the match, the 20-year-old kept the focus on the collective effort.

“For me, Barcelona are the best team in the world right now. We knew we would suffer at some point because of the quality of players they have. But the team played very well, ran a lot, and that’s why we got the victory,” he said.

On his involvement in the winning goal, he added:

“I tried to help and come in to support the team because we wanted to look for the victory. We also need points, and in that play with the push we were able to generate the goal.”

Spanish outlet Diario AS described him as explosive and highlighted his sharpness in tight spaces. That directness proved crucial against a Barcelona side pushing for control late in the game.

Girona coach Míchel Sánchez was equally emphatic in his assessment.

“He’s a player with incredible talent. He spent half a year at Leverkusen without consistent playing time, and perhaps he needs to slow down a bit, but in terms of talent he’s phenomenal,” he said, as relayed by AS.

Míchel outlined the attributes that make the Argentine so dangerous.

“He plays in space, he’s clinical in front of goal, and we need to get him closer to the box. He’s also amazing in tight spaces; he has a great final pass, a blistering burst of speed and a powerful shot. Claudio has brutal talent.”

Having followed Manchester City’s loan development model, Girona offers Echeverri a platform to regain rhythm after a difficult spell at Bayer Leverkusen earlier in the season. Although he has yet to start for Girona, his influence across four appearances has been consistent.

However, it remains too early to determine whether this surge will translate into a regular starting role or future first-team integration at City.

Girona will look to build momentum after climbing to mid-table, with Echeverri pushing for increased minutes in the coming fixtures.

For Manchester City, continued development and consistent impact in Spain could strengthen his case for a larger role next season. Much will depend on sustained output rather than isolated flashes.

Can Echeverri turn impact appearances into a breakthrough season?