16-year-old Kendry Paez is set to join Chelsea in 2025 when he turns 18, and the Ecuadorian midfielder is excited at the prospect of linking up with Enzo Fernandez at Stamford Bridge. Paez was signed from Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle for €20 million (£17.2m) earlier this month, and has already been called up to Ecuador’s senior squad for their friendlies against Bolivia and Costa Rica later this month.
Speaking to ESPN SportsCenter, Paez said: ‘I don’t feel pressure, I am focused on Independiente, on the Libertadores and trying to continue playing in the best way. To get there I have to keep working, be focused on learning. It will be something special to share things with players like Enzo, with other special ones.’
Paez also spoke of his desire to make a name for himself in the game, saying: ‘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. He’s very special, he’s the best. I’m 16-years-old, they cannot compare me with him, because I’m in a process. I have things to improve and gain a lot of experience. Later, with time, perhaps with what I win, maybe with Kendry Paez, the Ecuadorian. It’s me and no one else.’
Enzo Fernandez joined Chelsea from Benfica in January for £106.8m and is set to be the lynchpin in midfield for years to come. Paez is looking forward to playing alongside him at Stamford Bridge and is determined to keep working hard and learning in order to make the most of his opportunity when he arrives in 2025.