The Unstoppable Rise of Kendry Paez: The Record-Breaking Prodigy Lighting Up World Cup Qualifiers!

Chelsea wonderkid Kendry Paez is an emerging talent who is expected to make headlines in the future. At the age of just 16 years and 161 days, he made history by becoming the youngest South American to score in a World Cup qualifier. Paez found the back of the net for Ecuador in their 2-1 victory against Bolivia on Thursday.

After being assisted by Moises Caicedo, the teenager executed a calm and composed finish that brought memories of Michael Owen being guided by David Beckham to score against Argentina in Saint-Etienne during the 1998 World Cup. It also reminded of Owen freeing Wayne Rooney from Croatia's last defender in Lisbon during Euro 2004.

Can he complete the task? Absolutely. Paez expressed his emotions on social media, stating, "I am experiencing unforgettable moments."

Dubbed the new "jewel" of Ecuador, this talented boy has already made his mark as the youngest appearance-maker and goalscorer in his country's top flight. At just 15 years old, he made a remarkable debut. He has also demonstrated his leadership skills by captaining Ecuador to the final of the South American U17 Championship this year. Additionally, he holds the impressive record of being the youngest ever to score at the FIFA U20 World Cup.

Despite already making waves and showing immense potential, this young prodigy will have to wait until his 18th birthday to make his debut for the Blues. The earliest opportunity for him to appear for Chelsea would be in May 2025.

So who is the wonderkid who has lit up the latest round of CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers?

'I'm Kendry... I'm going to give the name to Ecuador'

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Paez looks set to have a very bright future

Chelsea reached an agreement to sign Paez from Independiente del Valle back in June for €20m (£17.27m).

Born in Guayaquil, Ecuador's second city, in 2007, the forward joined Independiente del Valle's academy in Sangolqui at the age of 11. Sangolqui is located on the outskirts of the capital, Quito, about 160 miles to the north. Just turning 16 in May last year, he is set to make a move to Stamford Bridge after his 18th birthday, most likely in the summer of 2025, and join the Blues.

The relocation, depicted in

, constituted a significant sacrifice that has molded his character since his early years, fostering both resilience and talent that he aspires will propel him to the pinnacle of his chosen sport.

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Paez was 16 years and 161 days old when he scored

Gonzalo Plata, who is 22 years old, looks up to his compatriot as a source of inspiration for his own career. Both players hail from the same city and started off at Independiente before Plata made his move to Al Sadd in Qatar. Despite being recognized as one of South America's most promising talents, Paez is content with continuing to develop in Ecuador's top flight this season.

During an interview with ESPN in June, Paez expressed his determination to remain fully focused on his current commitment with Independiente and his participation in the Libertadores, while deliberately not thinking about his future move to Stamford Bridge until he turns 18.

I'm Kendry, I'm going to give the name to Ecuador. I'm going to continue being me, I don't want to be compared to Messi.

"To reach that level, I must continue working diligently and remain focused on my studies. The opportunity to share experiences with players like Enzo Fernandez and other exceptional individuals will indeed be extraordinary."

"It's truly amazing, but at the moment, my utmost attention is on Independiente Del Valle. There are still two years ahead, and I am aware that time passes swiftly. I will remain dedicated to my current endeavors.

My name is Kendry, and I aspire to make a mark for Ecuador. I will persist in being true to myself, without seeking comparisons to Messi.

"He is incredibly unique, truly the cream of the crop. At 16 years old, it is unfair to compare myself to him, as I am still growing and in the midst of a journey. I have much room for improvement and countless opportunities to gain valuable experience. In due time, just like Kendry Paez, the Ecuadorian, perhaps with my accomplishments, I will emerge as my own standout. There is no one quite like me."

What is the feeling back home?

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Paez, on his 18th birthday, will make a move to the Premier League.

Paez has been making waves in Ecuador for quite some time, a country not widely known for producing top-tier talent. However, this perception is already shifting with the rise of Moises Caicedo and his recent transfer from Brighton to Chelsea for a staggering £115m, a new British record fee.

As a result, Paez's growing reputation has placed an even greater burden on his shoulders to emerge as the upcoming sensation. In two consecutive youth tournaments held during the summer of 2022, Paez managed to capture global attention. His noteworthy performance for Independiente's U18s led them to triumph in the Copa Milo in July.

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Scouts from Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund witnessed him score twice in the final against Colombia's Atletico Nacional.

In addition to that, Paez showcased his innate talent by unleashing a remarkable lob from the center of the field. Moreover, he was honored with the prestigious title of outstanding player at the 2022 Next Generation Trophy in Salzburg. It is noteworthy that Independiente's U15 team triumphed over youth teams from Inter Milan and RB Leipzig in earlier matches, albeit they faced defeat in the final.

In February of this year, he entered the senior ranks for Independiente, making his debut and becoming the youngest player to both debut and score in the Ecuadorian top flight. Shortly thereafter, he made his first appearance in the Copa Libertadores, securing a victory over Corinthians.

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Paez was named MVP at the 2022 Next Generation Trophy

When Paez made his senior international debut for La Tricolor against Uruguay on September 12, it had been a long-awaited moment even though he was only 16 years and 131 days old.

Paez was on the brink of breaking a long-standing record held by Argentina legend Diego Maradona, and it was clear that he made the most of his 70 minutes on the field. He played a crucial role in Felix Torres' game-winning goal, securing a 2-1 victory.

Where does he play?

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Paez celebrates after scoring against Bolivia

Paez primarily operates on the right side of an attacking trio, although he is also capable of playing alongside a striker. Being left-footed, he demonstrates versatility by performing effectively on either shoulder. Despite exhibiting the renowned swagger and style of South American footballers, Paez effortlessly exudes a laid-back demeanor without ever appearing disengaged.

What sets Paez apart is his remarkable willingness to seize control and assume responsibility, defying his youthful age.

Chelsea fans will find it encouraging that a promising relationship seems to be developing with Caicedo, as he assisted Paez in scoring his significant international goal. Despite already having talented players like Raheem Sterling, Noni Madueke, and Mykhaylo Mudryk in wide positions, Paez eagerly welcomes the competition and the opportunity to learn from experienced individuals who have played in Europe and the Premier League.

Chelsea successfully secured the signature of a proficient dribbler nicknamed 'Di Maria' during his time at Independiente, despite facing tough competition from Dortmund and Man Utd. This acquisition aligns perfectly with the club's current transfer strategy, which focuses on signing the most promising young talents in the global football scene.

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He became the youngest ever scorer at the FIFA U20 World Cup

After netting a sensational free-kick to secure a 2-0 victory for Independiente against Gualaceo prior to the international break, Kendry Paez's manager, Martin Anselmi, expressed the need to protect and support the young talent. Anselmi stressed the importance of maintaining equilibrium, striving for continuous improvement in training, and preparing for a promising future that holds boundless opportunities.

It is essential to shield him from the ongoing discussions since the surrounding noise, regardless of its nature, can prove detrimental. Nevertheless, if Paez remains on his current path of making waves on the international stage, the volume of noise will inevitably increase.