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Chelsea has canceled Kendry Paez’s loan at River Plate, bringing the 18-year-old Ecuadorian midfielder back to Stamford Bridge after a spell in Argentina that produced limited playing time.
Paez made only three starts and 11 substitute appearances for River Plate, with his total time on the pitch falling below 500 minutes. Chelsea’s decision to end the loan follows reports that cite a recall clause linked to his minutes played.
Paez joined Chelsea in May 2025 from Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle for €20 million. He was immediately loaned to RC Strasbourg, Chelsea’s sister club in France’s Ligue 1, where he made 21 appearances across all competitions.
In late January 2026, Chelsea recalled Paez from Strasbourg and redirected him to River Plate in Argentina. The loan was originally expected to run through the end of the year.
Reports and discussion around Paez’s time at River Plate have included unverified claims circulating on social media about disciplinary issues. However, no concrete information has been presented in the available material.
Paez previously became the youngest player to score in Ecuador’s top division while at Independiente del Valle. Chelsea’s interest was also shaped by his performances in youth tournaments, leading to a deal agreed when he was still a minor.
The €20 million fee reflects a long-term bet on potential rather than immediate output. Two loan spells across France and Argentina within roughly six months represent a significant adjustment period for an 18-year-old trying to establish himself in senior professional football.
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