Kendry Páez: World Cup Dreams Since Childhood, Ballon d'Or is Every Footballer's Dream

In an interview with AS, Kendry Páez discusses his first World Cup experience and the future of Ecuador's national team.

Kendry Páez is expected to bring a new storm to Ecuador. The 2023 U-17 South American Championship brought him international recognition, and three years later, he is making his senior national team debut at the World Cup. He has been compared to Yamal, Estêvão, and Mastantuono, fellow young stars from the 2007 generation. Since then, his life has changed dramatically, including stints with Chelsea, Strasbourg, and Cartagena.

The left-footed player gave an exclusive interview to AS from Ecuador's national team base in Columbus, Ohio. At just 19 years old, he speaks with the maturity of a veteran player. Ecuador and their star players have high ambitions because "anything is possible in the World Cup."

Regarding his feelings about participating in the World Cup for the first time, Kendry Páez said: "It's very special. As a kid, I watched the national team play. I dreamed of participating in the World Cup one day. Now I have the opportunity to experience it from the inside, which is a blessing. I'm trying to enjoy every moment, learn from my teammates, and help however I can."

When asked how he manages the pressure and expectations as one of Ecuador's greatest hopes and how he handles being compared to Yamal or Estêvão, Kendry Páez said: "I take the pressure calmly. They are all incredible players, and everyone has their own path. I try to focus on developing myself every day, listening to those who support me, and working hard. Comparisons will always exist in football, but I want to build my own story."

Regarding whether he has imagined competing against 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. To be honest, right now I'm focused on continued growth and helping my national team and club."

About what Beccacece demands from him daily, given that he is already Ecuador's number 10, Kendry Páez said: "He asks me to 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 I still have much to learn and develop."

Regarding who has helped and guided him most in the dressing room, Kendry Páez said: "I'm fortunate to play alongside players with outstanding careers. Many have given me advice and support. I try to listen a lot, learn from everyone, and benefit from their experience."

About some saying Ecuador is the biggest dark horse in this tournament or even one of the favorites, Kendry Páez said: "We respect every national team. We know we have a talented team with a very bright future, but in the World Cup, reputation doesn't determine victory. What matters is continuing to work humbly and proving ourselves on the pitch."

Regarding which team he thinks will win the World Cup, Kendry Páez said: "There are many strong teams. First would be Ecuador, then Argentina, France, Spain, Brazil, England... These teams are all very strong, but the World Cup always has surprises. That's what makes it so special."

About his opinion of the Spanish national team and which Spanish player he would sign to join Ecuador, Kendry Páez said: "Spain has excellent players and beautiful football philosophy. It's hard to choose just one because they all have great talent. But if I had to pick one, it would be someone like Pedri because he understands the game very well and can make a difference."

Regarding his idol, Kendry Páez said: "I have always admired players like Messi for what they do on the pitch. I also follow many current players and learn things from everyone."

About how he would describe himself as a player versus Kendry Páez as an ordinary person off 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 feel grateful to everyone who has helped me reach this point."

Regarding the many Ecuadorian children who see him as an example that dreams can come true early, and if he could give one piece of advice to young players in academies who dream of joining Ecuador's national team, 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 discipline and hard work are what make the difference."

About how he thinks his career will develop if they meet again in four years, meaning the 2030 World Cup, Kendry Páez said: "I hope to be a more complete and experienced player, and to learn from every stage I go through. Most importantly, I hope to continue enjoying football and represent Ecuador in the best way possible."