Chelsea wonderkid scores record goal but won't make Blues debut for two years

13 October 2023 , 09:09

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Kendry Paez scored in Ecuador's win over Bolivia

Future Chelsea star Kendry Paez became the youngest South American player ever to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup qualifier when he netted on Thursday night.

The Ecuador international, aged 16 years and 161 days, bagged his first international goal during his country's 2-1 win over Bolivia in La Paz. His goal was assisted by Chelsea's summer signing Moises Caicedo, who is set to be a future team-mate of Paez at Stamford Bridge.

The teenage sensation signed for the Blues several months ago after a £17.2m deal was struck with Independiente del Valle. He won't actually move to west London until he turns 18 though, leaving Chelsea to watch his exploits for the next two years.

Paez is capable of playing in midfield or on the wing and made his debut for Independiente at the age of 15. He is the youngest debutant and goalscorer in the Ecuadorian top flight and continues the Chelsea recruitment policy that targets young players.

Paez's early days hint at a promising record after he excelled at the under-17 Copa America, scoring two and assisting six as he captained his country. He was also recognised as the top talent at the Next Generation Trophy - a youth tournament featuring clubs from around the globe - last year.

Chelsea complete record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer after deadline day rush

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has inherited an expensive squad that has so far failed to hit the heights expected. The west Londoners finished in the bottom half last term and have struggled so far this season, winning just three of their eight Premier League games.

The teenager celebrated with future Blues team-mate Moises Caicedo

The Argentine has seen a host of new players arrive this summer but has made it known that he wants to be more involved in the arrivals and departures. He said: "I think like I told before, when the transfer window was closed, I need to be involved, more involved now, in every single decision. I think we need to start identifying what we need for January. We already start to work."

Chelsea signed Cole Palmer from Manchester City for £40m and also beat Liverpool to the capture of highly-rated midfielder Romeo Lavia, who impressed in a poor Southampton side, eventually costing the Blues £53m.

Samuel Meade