Echeverri Finally Makes Manchester City Debut in FA Cup Final

Claudio Echeverri finally made his Manchester City debut during the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace at Wembley. The 19-year-old Argentine talent came on as a substitute in the 76th minute. This was his first appearance since joining from River Plate in February.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Pep Guardiola brought Echeverri on in the 76th minute, replacing Omar Marmoush. City were trailing 1-0 after Eberechi Eze’s first-half goal. The teenager had not played a competitive match since he arrived at the Etihad over three months ago. Though he trained with the first team since February, this was his first game for City.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Echeverri’s debut came during a difficult time for Manchester City. They lost the FA Cup final as Crystal Palace won 1-0, claiming their first major trophy. Palace also earned a spot in next season’s Europa League. Echeverri’s appearance in this big game showed Guardiola’s faith in him despite his lack of playing time.

The Argentine midfielder first signed from River Plate in January but arrived at the Etihad in February 2025. Reports say City will decide on his future after the season, with possible loan moves to Girona and Lazio being considered for his development.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ECHEVERRI?

Although Manchester City’s season ended with the cup final loss, Echeverri’s debut was a positive sign for him and the club. The coming summer will be important to see if he stays at City next season or goes on loan for more playing time. Now that he’s made his debut, Echeverri will want to impress more during City’s pre-season.

For City, the focus is on improving next season after missing the FA Cup trophy. How Guardiola uses the talented Argentine in the future will be an interesting story this summer and into the new season.