Manchester City Superstar Ruled Out of FIFA Club World Cup and 2025/26 Season

In a devastating blow to Manchester City’s ambitions, the club has confirmed that one of their key superstars, Claudio Echeverri, will miss the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup and the entirety of the 2025/26 season due to a severe injury sustained during their dominant 6-0 victory over Al Ain in Atlanta, Georgia. The news has sent shockwaves through the Manchester City fanbase, as the highly-rated playmaker was expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s campaign in both the global tournament and the upcoming Premier League season.

The injury occurred during City’s second group stage match of the FIFA Club World Cup on June 22, 2025. Echeverri, who had only recently joined the first team after his £12.5 million transfer from River Plate in January 2024, showcased his immense potential by scoring a stunning free-kick in the first half. However, the 19-year-old Argentine was forced off at halftime, replaced by Phil Foden. Post-match reports confirmed that Echeverri was seen leaving the stadium on crutches, wearing a protective boot, raising immediate concerns about the severity of his condition.

Manager Pep Guardiola addressed the media after the match, confirming the worst fears for City supporters. “Claudio felt something during the first half, and we couldn’t risk him further,” Guardiola said. “The medical team has assessed him, and it’s a significant injury. He’s likely to be out for the rest of the Club World Cup and, unfortunately, the 2025/26 season. It’s a big loss for us, but we wish him a speedy recovery.” While the club has not disclosed the exact nature of the injury, sources indicate it could be a complex ankle or knee issue requiring extensive rehabilitation, potentially sidelining Echeverri for up to 12 months.

This injury adds to Manchester City’s challenging history with injuries over the past year. The 2024/25 season saw key players like Rodri, Erling Haaland, and Mateo Kovačić miss significant time due to various injuries. Kovačić, for instance, underwent surgery for an Achilles injury in May 2025, ruling him out of the Club World Cup, while Haaland was sidelined for up to seven weeks earlier in the year with an ankle injury. Despite these setbacks, City’s squad depth has been bolstered by recent signings, including Rayan Aït-Nouri, Omar Marmoush, and Rayan Cherki, who have already made significant contributions in the tournament.

Echeverri’s absence poses a tactical challenge for Guardiola, who had high hopes for the young midfielder’s creativity and flair in the attacking third. The 19-year-old’s ability to unlock defenses with his vision and technical skill was seen as a key asset, especially in a tournament as competitive as the Club World Cup. With Manchester City already securing a spot in the last-16 after victories over Wydad AC and Al Ain, the team now faces Juventus in a crucial group stage match to determine their seeding in the knockout rounds. Without Echeverri, players like Phil Foden, Ilkay Gundogan, and new signing Cherki will need to step up to fill the creative void.

The loss of Echeverri also raises questions about Manchester City’s plans for the 2025/26 Premier League season. The club had been banking on the young Argentine to complement their star-studded squad, which includes Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, who recently returned from an ACL injury, and Erling Haaland, who has recovered from his earlier ankle issue. City’s management may now look to the transfer market to reinforce their midfield, with rumors linking them to additional signings before the season begins.

For now, Manchester City’s focus remains on the Club World Cup, where they aim to reclaim the title they won in 2023. Despite the setback, the squad’s depth and Guardiola’s tactical acumen make them one of the favorites to lift the trophy. Fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for Echeverri, whose potential remains a bright spot for the club’s future, even as they navigate this significant challenge.