In an interview with AS, Kendry Páez spoke about his first FIFA World Cup and Ecuador's prospects in the tournament.

Kendry Páez is expected to usher in a new era for Ecuador. After bursting onto the scene at the 2023 U-17 South American Championship, he made his senior international debut at the FIFA World Cup three years later. He has been compared to fellow 2007-born talents like Yamil, Esteban, and Mastantuono. Since then, his life has changed dramatically, including stints with Chelsea, Strasbourg, and River Plate.

The left-footed player gave an exclusive interview to AS at Ecuador's base in Columbus, Ohio. Though he just turned 19, he speaks with the maturity of a veteran. Ecuador and their star player carry high expectations because, as he says, "anything is possible at the FIFA World Cup."

When asked about his feelings on participating in the World Cup for the first time, Kendry Páez said: "It's very special. As a kid watching national team matches, I dreamed of one day participating in the FIFA World Cup. Now that I have the opportunity to experience it firsthand, I feel blessed. I'm trying to enjoy every moment, learn from my teammates, and be as helpful as possible."

When asked how he handles the pressure and expectations as Ecuador's great hope and a player compared to Yamil and Esteban, Kendry Páez said: "I accept the pressure calmly. They are all amazing players, and each has their own path. I focus on improving every day, listening to those who help me, and working hard. There will always be comparisons in football, but I want to write my own story."

When asked if he imagined competing with them for the Golden Boy or Ballon d'Or award, Kendry Páez said: "These are very important awards that every player dreams of winning someday. Honestly, for now I'm focused on continuing to grow and helping my national team and club."

When asked what Ecuador's number 10 thinks coach Beccacece demands from him daily, Kendry Páez said: "He demands that I be myself, play with confidence, enjoy the game on the pitch, and always put the team first. He also demands a lot from me because he knows there's still much I need to learn and improve."

When asked who in the locker room has helped and guided him the most, Kendry Páez said: "I'm fortunate to play alongside players with great careers. Many people constantly give me advice and support. I listen a lot, learn from everyone, and try to take advantage of their experience."

When asked about some people saying Ecuador is the tournament's biggest dark horse or even one of the favorites to win, Kendry Páez said: "We respect all national teams. We know we have a very talented and promising squad, but at the FIFA World Cup, names don't win matches. What matters is working hard with humility and proving ourselves on the pitch."

When asked what other teams he considers contenders for the World Cup, Kendry Páez said: "There are many strong teams. First Ecuador, and then Argentina, France, Spain, Brazil, England... These teams are all very strong, but at the FIFA World Cup there are always surprises, and that's what makes this tournament special."

When asked his opinion on Spain and which Spanish player he would like Ecuador to sign, Kendry Páez said: "Spain has great players and a very beautiful football philosophy. It's difficult to pick just one player because they're all very talented, but if I had to choose one, it would be someone like Pedri. He understands the game very well and can make a difference."

When asked about his idols, Kendry Páez said: "I've always admired players like Lionel Messi who do everything on the pitch. I also follow many current players and learn different things from everyone."

When asked how he would describe himself as a player and outside the pitch, he said: "As a player, I like to try different things, play for the team, and enjoy football. As a person, I'm quiet, I value my family greatly, and I'm very grateful to everyone who has helped me become who I am today."

When asked what advice he would give to young academy players dreaming of joining Ecuador's national team, given that many Ecuadorian children see him as a role model who achieved his dreams early, Kendry Páez said: "Don't stop believing in your dreams. But understand that dreams are built little by little through daily effort. Talent helps, but training and perseverance make the difference."

When asked how he thinks his career will develop when they meet again in four years at the 2030 FIFA World Cup, Kendry Páez said: "I hope to become a more complete and experienced player who has learned a lot from every stage I've gone through. But most importantly, I want to continue enjoying football and represent Ecuador in the best way possible."

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