Manchester City youngster Claudio Echeverri could be set for another loan move this summer, with Bahia emerging as a strong contender for the Argentine’s next destination following Girona’s relegation from La Liga.
According to journalist João Van Boysen, Bahia, Flamengo, River Plate and AC Monza are all monitoring the 20-year-old’s situation ahead of the new season. The report also states that Echeverri is unlikely to return directly to Manchester City’s first-team squad, leaving the Premier League club to decide where the highly rated attacking midfielder can continue his development.
The situation represents another important step in Manchester City’s long-term plan for one of South America’s most promising young talents.
Why Bahia could appeal to Manchester City
Among the clubs linked with Echeverri, Bahia stands out because of its relationship with Manchester City through the City Football Group network.
The multi-club model has regularly been used to provide young players with competitive minutes while allowing City to maintain close oversight of their development. Girona fulfilled that role for Echeverri during the second half of last season, but the Spanish club’s relegation has altered the landscape significantly.
A move to Bahia would keep the player inside the CFG structure while potentially offering a more prominent role than he managed to secure in Spain.
Having followed Manchester City's loan strategy closely in recent seasons, it is notable how often the club prioritises playing time over league prestige when managing elite prospects. Regular starts are often viewed as more valuable than sporadic appearances at a higher level.
Girona spell delivered mixed results
Echeverri arrived in Spain with considerable expectations after his performances for River Plate and Argentina’s youth teams.
His time at Girona provided valuable exposure to European football, but opportunities remained limited. The midfielder made 17 appearances across all competitions, starting only five matches and contributing one goal and one assist.
| Stat (2025/26) | Claudio Echeverri |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 17 |
| Starts | 5 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
Source: club competition records – 9 June 2026
Those numbers only tell part of the story. Girona’s difficult campaign and eventual relegation created a challenging environment for a young attacking player still adapting to European football.
River Plate and Flamengo remain alternatives
River Plate’s interest is unlikely to disappear given Echeverri’s history with the club. The Argentine side have explored the possibility of bringing him back before, although Manchester City previously preferred to keep him within the European development pathway.
Flamengo would provide another attractive South American option. The Brazilian giants offer continental competition, significant pressure and a platform that has helped numerous young players prepare for moves to Europe.
Meanwhile, AC Monza could allow Echeverri to remain in European football, although much will depend on the Italian club’s sporting plans and the role they are prepared to offer.
However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions. Interest from multiple clubs does not necessarily indicate that a final decision is close.
Key Points
- Claudio Echeverri is expected to leave Manchester City on loan again.
- Bahia, Flamengo, River Plate and AC Monza are all linked.
- Girona's relegation has effectively ended the possibility of another spell there.
- Manchester City are believed to prefer a development-focused solution.
- Bahia's City Football Group connection could prove significant.
What’s Next
Manchester City are expected to assess Echeverri’s options over the coming weeks as clubs formalise their plans for the 2026/27 season. The priority will likely be finding an environment where the Argentine can play consistently rather than simply securing another move within Europe.
If Bahia’s interest develops into a concrete proposal, City would have the advantage of keeping Echeverri within the CFG network while monitoring his progress closely. Any decision is likely to be made before pre-season preparations begin in July.
Will Bahia prove the ideal next step for Echeverri, or should Manchester City continue pushing for his development in European football?
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