His performances for their youth team, including being named most outstanding player at the 2022 Next Generation Trophy in Salzburg, Austria, drew the attention of multiple clubs across Europe.

[5][6] He reportedly attracted interest from German club Borussia Dortmund,[7] while English side Manchester United had an opening bid for Páez rejected in December 2022.

Having received a lifted cut-back on the right-hand side of the penalty area from Anthony Landázuri, he instinctively floated the ball over the goalkeeper, Jorge Pinos, on the volley into the far corner of the goal.

In their first game, he provided an assist for Ecuador's second goal in their 2–2 comeback draw with Brazil - a through-ball from his own half which was then converted by teammate Geremy de Jesús.

[21] Described as a fearless dribbler, Paéz took inspiration from fellow Ecuadorian Gonzalo Plata and Argentine Lionel Messi, both of whom he watched as a child, to improve his own dribbling ability.