Before the start of the South America U-17 tournament, was one of the players with the highest expectations Claudio Echeverri, attacking midfielder of the Argentina team in the category. A member of the minor leagues of River Plate since he was 10, the ‘Diablito’ had the responsibility of being one of the characters in the cast directed by Pablo Aimar, a role he has fulfilled perfectly to this day: he has scored Three goals and the same number of assists, he is the top scorer in his squad having already qualified for the final hexagon of the competition.
Precisely hoping for the great performance of his youth team, the millionaire decided to include him among the 48 elements that make up his real list for the Copa Libertadores. Martín Demichelis’ team had a tough start to the competition so they should spare no resources to overcome Group D, which they share with Fluminense, The Strongest and Sporting Cristal.
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Who is Claudio Echeverri?
At 17, “Diablito” is one of the footballers with the greatest projection in Argentine football. His nickname is due to the similarity of his surname to that of former Bolivian player Marco “Diablo” Etcheverry, although he shares no relationship with him. In January of this year, he signed his first professional contract with club Núñez, which includes a $25 million release clause.
According to Martín Pellegrino, River’s youth coach, Echeverri has the ability to emerge as a creative midfielder and forward. “He can empower a team-mate but he’s also a great definer. He’s very complete in his position. He can be an appendage or a midfielder,” he told Infobae some time ago.
Watch Claudio Echeverri’s double against Peru
- Peru 0-1 Argentina | Claudio Echeverri (17′)
- Peru 0-3 Argentina | Claudio Echeverri (17′)
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Can Claudio Echeverri play against Sporting Cristal?
Since the game between River Plate and Sporting Cristal Due to the second date of the Copa Libertadores, it will be played next Wednesday April 19th. It would be impossible for Echeverri to be present at this clash as he will continue to focus on the last hexagon with Argentina U-17 side until 23.04.
However, the talented youngster would already be available for the Cristal vs. River rematch to be played in Lima on Thursday 25 May, leaving the decision to call him up or not to rest solely with coach Demichelis.