Kendry Paez’s career is facing further setbacks with reports emerging from Argentina that River Plate are seeking to terminate his loan agreement with Chelsea. The 19-year-old, once touted as South America’s brightest talent, joined Chelsea in 2023 from Independiente del Valle, having already made his senior debut and scored his first goal at the age of 15.
Chelsea’s acquisition of Paez was initially viewed as a significant coup, demonstrating a new transfer strategy focused on securing promising young players. However, three years later, the club’s approach is being questioned, and Paez has become emblematic of its struggles. Chelsea are now reportedly shifting towards signing more experienced players, but the damage to Paez’s development may already be done.
Paez moved to Europe last year, turning 18 in the spring, and was immediately loaned to Strasbourg, a club under the same ownership as Chelsea, to aid his transition. Despite weeks of training with the team, he failed to earn the trust of then-coach Liam Rosenior, making mostly brief appearances. Rosenior publicly criticised the young players, including Paez, for a lack of tactical adherence and demanded greater performance. Both Rosenior and Paez left their respective clubs shortly after.
His time at Strasbourg yielded 718 minutes played across 21 appearances and a single goal. Reports from L’Equipe indicated Paez displayed a concerning attitude, leaving a negative impression during training and frequently being seen at Disneyland Paris or nightclubs. A prior incident in Ecuador saw Paez reportedly attending a New York strip club with teammates while still a minor, and further reports of nightclub visits surfaced shortly after.
Chelsea recalled Paez in January but immediately sent him on loan to River Plate, hoping a return to South America would revitalise his career. However, he didn’t make his first start until March, eventually accumulating only 461 minutes and one goal. A missed penalty in a crucial playoff match against San Lorenzo led to criticism and a subsequent exclusion from the matchday squad. His recent form for the Ecuador national team has also declined, with fewer starting opportunities.
According to TyC Sports, River Plate’s new coach, Eduardo Coudet, has decided Paez is not part of his plans. This decision represents a significant blow to the young player’s development. Paez joined Chelsea as Ecuador’s golden boy, but now faces a battle to salvage his career before even making an appearance for the club. Chelsea may consider cutting their losses if he returns to West London this summer, highlighting the risks associated with signing young players without adequate guidance.
