“He’s a soft player” – Harsh verdict on Chelsea talent after derby outing

Chelsea youngster Kendry Páez’s momentum at River Plate has taken another turn, with his first Superclásico start quickly followed by a difficult night that raises fresh questions about his role – and, ultimately, his future on loan.

The 18-year-old, on loan from Chelsea, was handed a starting spot against Boca Juniors after impressing off the bench days earlier. However, River fell to a 0-1 defeat at the Monumental, and Páez struggled to make an impact before being substituted after 57 minutes.

It was a sharp contrast to his recent display, and one that could again influence how River manage his minutes moving forward.

From impact sub to difficult Superclásico

Páez had earned his place in the XI after changing the game against Carabobo, where he came on and provided the assist for the winning goal in just 39 minutes.

That performance pushed him into contention and, ultimately, into the starting lineup for one of the biggest fixtures in South American football. But against Boca, though, the context was very different.

River dominated spells of possession but lacked cutting edge, and Páez found it hard to impose himself between the lines. While he showed personality at times, his overall contribution remained limited.

The numbers reflect that struggle. He had 32 touches but did not register a single shot. He completed 9 of 16 passes and failed to complete a dribble.

In addition, he misplaced several controls, lost possession 15 times and could not provide the creative spark River needed.

Criticism follows performance

The display did not go unnoticed in Argentina. River legend Reinaldo “Mostaza” Merlo offered a blunt assessment after the match, questioning both Páez’s impact and physical presence. His words were relayed by Olé.

“I thought Páez wouldn’t play because he only played a little bit against Carabobo. He played well for a short time [against Carabobo] and nothing more.”

“I’ve seen him when he’s come on and he’s a soft player. Coudet put players in to have the ball. They had it at times, but lacked depth and threat. Then they struggled to be clinical.”

He then criticised the player’s attitude, for showing no ‘sadness or regret’ when he was hooked off the pitch and after the final whistle blew.

“Losing a derby always hurts. It have to hurt. You have to suffer it for as long as it takes, and then you have to start again.”

The criticism highlights the scrutiny Páez is now facing, particularly in high-pressure matches.

What it means for Chelsea and the loan

For Chelsea, this kind of fluctuation is part of the development process. Páez is still adapting to a new environment, a new tactical system and the demands of a club like River.

However, it also reinforces the uncertainty around his role. He moved from being an unused option, to a game-changing substitute, to a starter in the biggest match of the season – and now back into question after a quiet performance.

That inconsistency matters in the context of his loan. River want to keep Páez involved and playing regularly, particularly with mechanisms in place that could allow Chelsea to reassess his situation if his minutes drop too low.

Performances like the one against Boca do not necessarily change long-term plans, but they can influence short-term decisions on selection and usage.

So after a standout display followed by a difficult Superclásico, the next few weeks may prove crucial in determining whether Páez can secure a stable role – and whether River can maintain control of his loan situation.