Two years after Chelsea secured the highly anticipated signature of Ecuador’s prodigious talent Kendry Paez, a concrete plan has finally been mapped out for his immediate future. The South American wonderkid, hailed as one of the brightest midfield prospects of his generation, had been eagerly eyeing a place in Chelsea’s squad for the upcoming Club World Cup. However, the latest developments suggest that Stamford Bridge won’t be his next immediate stop. Instead, Chelsea’s hierarchy has devised a carefully constructed strategy to ensure Paez’s growth aligns with their long-term vision.
While the talented teenager’s omission from the squad for the global tournament may raise eyebrows, this move appears calculated, with both player development and strategic squad planning in mind. Here’s why Chelsea believe a stint in France is the ideal next step for their Ecuadorian star.
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Chelsea’s Blueprint for Kendry Paez’s Rise
Having struck a deal for Paez in 2023, Chelsea have long positioned themselves at the forefront of South American scouting. The attacking midfielder, who possesses electric dribbling, incisive passing, and mature tactical awareness far beyond his years, quickly became a hot commodity across Europe. Boasting 13 goals and six assists in 70 appearances for Independiente del Valle, and already a senior Ecuador international with 17 caps, Paez’s meteoric rise made his Stamford Bridge arrival one of the most anticipated moves among the club’s fanbase.
Despite this momentum, decision-makers at Chelsea—under the direction of new manager Enzo Maresca—have opted against rushing his integration. While early reports hinted at his possible inclusion in Chelsea’s Club World Cup roster, fresh insight from Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the Ecuadorian playmaker will instead be sent on loan to Ligue 1 outfit Strasbourg for the 2025-26 season.
Why Strasbourg? The Bigger Picture Behind the Loan
The choice of Strasbourg as Paez’s next destination wasn’t arbitrary. As part of BlueCo’s multi-club model, Chelsea’s ownership holds significant influence over the French side’s operations. This connection ensures that Paez’s playing time, role, and tactical development can be directly shaped by Chelsea’s interests.
Furthermore, Strasbourg have earned qualification for the UEFA Conference League, presenting the perfect platform for Paez to experience European football at a competitive level without the suffocating scrutiny that often comes with representing a Premier League giant. Regular domestic action combined with continental fixtures will provide the teenager with valuable minutes that would likely be difficult to guarantee amid Chelsea’s bloated midfield ranks.
For Paez, game time is non-negotiable at this point in his career, and Strasbourg offers an environment where mistakes will be tolerated, learning is encouraged, and development is prioritized.
Missing the Club World Cup: A Disappointment, But Logical
Ben Jacobs, another respected voice in football reporting, revealed that Paez was left “disappointed” after learning of Chelsea’s stance regarding his immediate involvement with the senior squad. The Club World Cup represented a significant personal milestone for Paez, symbolizing his formal arrival on European football’s grand stage.
Yet, while emotions are understandable, Chelsea’s rationale remains sound. Having spent most of 2025 out of action, including a noticeable absence from domestic competition, Paez only recently returned to the field with a brief 13-minute cameo for Ecuador against Peru.
Throwing him into the cauldron of elite competition after such a period of inactivity could risk stagnating his progression. Chelsea’s management recognizes that building rhythm, confidence, and form takes precedence over short-term exposure.
The Strasbourg Launchpad to Stamford Bridge
For Chelsea, Kendry Paez represents a long-term investment, not just a fleeting prodigious signing. By 2026-27, with a full season of European football under his belt and physical development aligned with Premier League standards, Paez is projected to return to Cobham a more refined version of the raw diamond they signed.
Strasbourg could very well serve as the ideal crucible, providing the Ecuadorian sensation with the perfect mix of competitive edge and tactical education required to shine on the English stage. Chelsea, after all, have learned from past experiences with highly-touted youngsters; managing Paez’s transition carefully could make the difference between another cautionary tale and a future Stamford Bridge icon.
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FAQs
Why isn’t Kendry Paez included in Chelsea’s Club World Cup squad?
Paez has been sidelined for most of 2025 and only recently returned to action. Chelsea feel a gradual reintegration elsewhere is more beneficial.
Why was Strasbourg chosen for his loan?
Strasbourg is part of Chelsea’s ownership network, allowing them influence over his playing time and tactical development.
Is Paez disappointed with Chelsea’s decision?
According to Ben Jacobs, Paez was “disappointed” about missing out on the Club World Cup opportunity.
What is Strasbourg’s European involvement?
Strasbourg have qualified for the UEFA Conference League, offering Paez regular continental competition.
When will Kendry Paez likely return to Chelsea?
If his loan spell progresses successfully, Paez is expected to join Chelsea’s senior setup for the 2026-27 season.
