What's gone wrong for Chelsea talent Kendry Paez?

What the report says

Chelsea attacker Kendry Paez has made his first appearance in the club’s colours, but only for the Under-21s, underscoring how slowly his move to Stamford Bridge has developed. BBC Sport reports that the 19-year-old, signed from Independiente del Valle for about £17.27m in 2023 when he was 16, came on as a substitute in a 4-1 EFL Trophy win for Cobham Next Gen against Arsenal and has still not featured for the first team.

The article says Chelsea once regarded Paez as one of South America’s most promising youngsters, pointing to his rapid rise with Ecuador and record-breaking senior appearances at a very young age. It also notes that he trained with Chelsea before being eligible to join, but his progress has been affected by a series of loan spells and concerns about consistency. A short stint at Strasbourg ended after one goal in 21 matches, while his loan at River Plate finished by mutual consent after he scored once in 14 appearances.

BBC Sport adds that Chelsea considered another loan in England, but Fifa rules and the club’s use of its available international loan slots have complicated that option. The story also refers to criticism from former coaches and some concern in Ecuador about his attitude, while people around Paez argue he still needs time and a stable environment to mature.

For Chelsea, the next stage may be an academy runout, a domestic loan or another overseas move if space becomes available. The broader significance is whether the club can still turn an early, high-profile signing into a senior success.