Ecuadorians in Ligue 1 McDonald's: A History

RC Strasbourg Alsace have secured the loan signing of Kendry Páez, one of the most exciting teenage talents to come out of South America and Ecuador. The 18 year-old joins on a season-long deal from Chelsea and will be making his first steps in European football with Strasbourg in Ligue 1 McDonald's.

Páez is already a full senior Ecuador international with 18 caps and scored his first goal for his nation at just 16 - he arrives in Alsace with a significant reputation. But he also joins a very exclusive group: only four Ecuadorian players have appeared in Ligue 1 McDonald's before him.

Here’s a look at the Ecuadorian pioneers in Ligue 1 McDonald's - and what Páez can learn from their paths.

Aníbal Chalá (Dijon, 2020–21)

Left-back Aníbal Chalá was the first Ecuadorian to register league minutes in France’s top flight. He made 13 Ligue 1 appearances during the 2020–21 season for Dijon FCO, who were ultimately relegated that year. His stint was brief in France, but he paved the way for others to be considered by French clubs.

Jackson Porozo (Troyes, 2022–23)

Towering centre-back Jackson Porozo played a full Ligue 1 McDonald's season with ESTAC Troyes, making 25 appearances and scoring once. Despite his individual efforts, Troyes finished 19th and dropped to Ligue 2 BKT - but he managed to catch the eye and it helped him earn further national team call-ups.

Jhoanner Chávez (Lens, 2023–present)

He's one of two current players to represent Ecuador to play in Ligue 1 McDonald's. When he joined Racing Club de Lens in 2023 he became the third Ecuadorian to feature in the league. Still only 23, Chávez has made six appearances for La Tri so far and featured in six Ligue 1 McDonald's matches last season.

Willian Pacho (PSG, 2024–present)

Willian Pacho made headlines in summer 2024 when he joined Paris Saint-Germain from Eintracht Frankfurt, He became the first Ecuadorian to sign for the French capital club. Since then he has starred for Luis Enrique's squad, being a key part of the PSG side that clinched the UEFA Champions League last season. In the process he became the first Ecuadorian to win the Champions League, and the fourth to win a UEFA competition after Antonio Valencia, Pervis Estupinan, and Moises Caicedo.

Kendry Páez (Strasbourg, 2025–present) 

Now comes Kendry Páez, perhaps the most promising of them all. A product of Independiente del Valle, he signed for Chelsea in 2023 but only became eligible to move to Europe after turning 18. His arrival in Alsace marks the start of his European adventure, and if his performances in South America and with the Ecuador national team are anything to go by, he could be set to make a major impact in Ligue 1 McDonald’s.

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>>Kendry Páez joins Strasbourg!