"He does it Every Day!" – Pep Guardiola Reveals Secret about Claudio Echeverri After his debut Goal in Club World Cup victory
Young Argentine star Claudio Echeverri earns Guardiola’s praise after scoring a brilliant free-kick in Manchester City’s 6-0 win over Al Ain.
Manchester City may have just uncovered another future superstar in Claudio Echeverri, as the 19-year-old grabbed headlines with a sensational free-kick during their dominant 6-0 win over Al Ain in the FIFA Club World Cup.
The Argentine teenager, signed from River Plate, opened his Manchester City account in spectacular style. Echeverri curled a powerful effort past the goalkeeper in the first half, showing not just flair but also composure far beyond his years.
But behind the magic moment was hours of dedication. After the game, manager Pep Guardiola shared the secret behind Echeverri’s set-piece success.
“I want to tell you a secret,” Guardiola told DAZN. “Last season, when he arrived, after every training session, he practiced free-kicks alone. Always. Work pays off! If you score a goal, it’s because you practiced.”
Echeverri was substituted at half-time after picking up a knock on his ankle, but his 45-minute cameo was enough to win over fans and make an impression on his manager. Guardiola called the Argentina U-23 captain “an incredible player,” praising his intelligence in tight spaces and his quick link-up play on the left wing.
“He’s from a small town [Resistencia], a big, big talent in small spaces and I’m happy for him,” Guardiola added.
The goal not only gave City fans a glimpse of what could be another future star, but it also highlighted the importance of hard work off the pitch. Echeverri, encouraged to join City by Sergio Aguero, has hit the ground running and is showing signs of settling in well at the Etihad.
His confident display, energetic dribbling and clear eye for goal have already led to comparisons with some of City’s past greats, and though Lyon were reportedly interested in signing him on loan, Guardiola seems determined to keep the rising star close.
Alongside fellow young talents like Rayan Cherki and Oscar Bobb, Echeverri could be the next breakout name to watch under Guardiola’s watchful eye.
With City now firmly in control of their group at the Club World Cup, fans will be hoping Echeverri recovers quickly and continues to dazzle on the world stage.
