Saturday, March 25, 2023 may well go down in history as an important day in the history of Ecuadorian football. Only time well tell.
That afternoon, Kendry Paez, a 15-year-old youngster from Independiente del Valle, made his senior professional debut and marked it with a goal in his team's 3-1 victory over Mushuc Runa.
15-year-old Kendry Páez scores on his pro debut for Independiente del Valle! 🇪🇨
— TheSecretScout (@TheSecretScout_) February 25, 2023
pic.twitter.com/rqN7kFnpWY
Paez promises to be one of the great future talents of Ecuadorian football. They already boast young players such as Moises Caideo and Piero Hincapie shining in Europe, while at home, Independiente del Valle claimed the Copa Sudamericana in 2019 and 2022. The nation is now arguably third in the continent of South America, behind Brazil and Argentina, when it comes to being a major footballing force.
Paez, just maybe, could become the biggest star in Ecuador's history. Here, The Sporting News looks at the early career of one of the game's most promising young talents, and when Chelsea fans may be able to see him turn out in the Premier League.
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Who is Kendry Paez? The pearl of Independiente del Valle and future star of Chelsea
Kendry Paez was born on May 4, 2007. He's a left-footed player who plays in central midfield, although he can also operate as a No. 10 or as a wide forward.
The attacking attributes of his game are the ones that stand out the most. Specifically, his composure when receiving the ball, his ability to break into the opposition box, and his dribbling in tight spaces are worthy of praise. The threat he poses when standing over free-kicks and corners is also notable.
In addition to playing for Independiente de Valle, one of the most prominent clubs in South American football over recent years, Paez has also represented the Ecuador national team in the Under-17 and Under-20 age categories. At the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in 2023, Paez became the youngest player to score at the tournament when he netted in Ecuador's 9-0 win over Fiji.
In June of that year, he earned his first senior international call-up. On his debut in September, he set up Felix Torres' match-winning goal against Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier, becoming the second youngest South American to play international football behind the legendary Diego Maradona.
When will Kendry Paez play for Chelsea? Transfer status, fee and date of signing
On June 5, 2023, Chelsea announced they had reached a deal to sign Kendry Paez from Independiente del Valle.
The Premier League club confirmed the player would join after he had turned 18, in accordance with FIFA regulations regarding the transfer of minors. That means he is expected to move to England in the summer of 2025.
According to Sky Sports, Chelsea will pay a fee of €20 million ($21.6m/£17.27m) for Paez. However, according to Independiente del Valle director Santiago Morales, the total fee will actually end up being lower.
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Kendry Paez EA FC 24 stats, rating and potential
Kendry Paez is available in the EA FC 24 game as part of the Independiente del Valle side in the Copa Libertadores.
Best played as a CAM, LW/RW or LF/RF, his overall rating is 71, but his potential rating is 87.
Paez has a four-star rating for skill moves and three stars for his weak foot ability. His traits include Flair Passes and Second Wind.
