Chelsea-bound Kendry Páez becomes youngest Copa América quarter-finalist
Kendry Páez recently became the youngest player ever to make an appearance in the quarter-finals of the Copa América by turning out for Ecuador against Argentina, as confirmed by Football London.
The 17-year-old started the game and came off in the 76th minute. The match went into penalties after the two sides ended regular time at 1-1. Argentina ultimately won the game 4-2 on penalties thanks to more heroics from their goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez.
The 2007-born attacking midfielder is currently at Ecuadorean Serie A club Independiente del Valle, whose academy he graduated from. He’s already on his way to Europe, having secured a €20m deal with Chelsea last summer that will see him switch continents in 2025.
In club football, Páez has so far made 53 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing 8 assists.
In international football, while playing for the senior Ecuador national team, he has earned 13 caps, delivering 2 goals and 3 assists in return.
More talented pick-ups for the Blues
With the acquisitions of Aaron Anselmino from Boca Juniors and Estêvão Willian from Palmeiras also confirmed, it’s safe to say Chelsea are continuing to spend freely and scout the world to land young talents as quickly as possible.
Chelsea may be trigger-happy with both their coaches and managers, but their ability to sniff and pluck talents under the new regime cannot be disputed; at this, they are very good.
More Chelsea News
- Chelsea register interest in signing €60m-rated Brazilian youngster
- “I respect Conte” – Chelsea target focussed on Euros 2024 amidst manager ‘veto’ claims
- Jose Mourinho seeks reunion with Chelsea superstar at Fenerbahce
One only hopes that, by the time these players arrive, Chelsea are in a much better and more stable condition to be able to offer them a platform upon which to grow and thrive.
