Chelsea’s youth revolution continues to flourish — and this time, the spotlight is shifting from Estevão Willian to another South American sensation: Kendry Páez.
According to The Chelsea Chronicle, the 17-year-old Ecuadorian midfielder — currently on loan at Strasbourg — is turning heads in Ligue 1 with a string of impressive performances that have thrilled both his French club and officials back in London.
After joining Chelsea amid huge excitement, Páez’s development is following a carefully crafted pathway. The Blues believe Strasbourg is the perfect place for him to mature before making his Premier League debut — a strategy similar to the one that worked wonders for Andrey Santos, who returned from the same French side ready for top-flight football.
Last month, Páez hit a major milestone by scoring his first goal for Strasbourg — a strike that not only boosted his confidence but also earned him a nomination for Ligue 1’s Young Player of the Month. He’s now competing with breakout stars Kader Meite and Tylel Tati for the award.
Even his celebration, inspired by João Pedro, showed the flair and personality that have made him a fan favourite among Strasbourg supporters.
Manager Liam Rosenior has placed huge trust in youth this season, and Páez has quickly emerged as one of the team’s most reliable creative sparks. His maturity, tactical intelligence, and relentless energy have also caught the attention of Ecuador’s national team coach, Sebastián Beccacece, who recently brought him back into the senior squad.
Beccacece, once critical of the teenager’s attitude, now praises Páez as “the hardest-working member of the squad,” citing a remarkable improvement in discipline and consistency.
With upcoming friendlies against Mexico and the USA, Páez has another chance to showcase his progress on the international stage.
Back in London, Chelsea’s hierarchy are reportedly thrilled with how his loan spell is unfolding. His performances in France suggest that the young playmaker could soon follow in the footsteps of Santos — and perhaps even make a case for first-team football at Stamford Bridge sooner than expected.
For now, Páez is proving one thing beyond doubt: Chelsea’s investment in youth isn’t just about potential — it’s already paying off.
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