How Ecuadorian club plans to spend £20m Moises Caicedo windfall | OneFootball

Ecuadorian club Independiente Del Valle nurtured Moises Caicedo and will benefit significantly from his recent £115 million transfer from Brighton & Hove Albion to Chelsea.

Based in Sangolqui on the outskirts of Quito, Independiente will receive more than £20 million thanks to a 20% sell-on clause in the deal that took Caicedo to Brighton in February 2021.

In an interview with The Athletic, Michel Deller, Independiente’s honourary president and one of Ecuador’s most successful entrepreneurs, expressed his commitment to reinvesting this windfall into the club’s youth divisions.

Deller’s vision includes creating a new ‘high-performance centre’ in Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas – Caicedo’s hometown. It will accommodate 200 boys and girls dedicated to football development.

Deller emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for young talents and using football as a means to improve lives and keep kids in school and away from drugs and trouble.

Independiente has a history of scouting and developing talented players from humble backgrounds, helping them achieve domestic and international success and inspiring a generation of hopeful youngsters across Ecuador.

The club’s journey from a third-tier club founded by a shoemaker in a town near Quito to competing at the highest levels of South American football has been remarkable.

Their formula of blending homegrown talents with experienced players has brought them success, including Copa Sudamericana and domestic titles.

Caicedo’s development at the club, both on and off the field, exemplifies Independiente’s dedication to nurturing young talents.

He joined the club as a 15-year-old. He received personalised care for an injury and was educated in various subjects, not just football.

This holistic approach has contributed to the success of players like Caicedo.

Independiente’s commitment to youth development extends beyond their senior team.

Their under-16s recently showcased their prowess in international competitions, defeating Liverpool and Atletico Madrid.

What sets Independiente apart is their long-term vision.

They may receive lower transfer fees initially, but their focus on developing complete individuals pays off in the long run.

The club reinvests proceeds from player sales into facilities and infrastructure, ensuring sustained growth.

The creation of privately financed football stadiums, expansion into historically deprived areas, and plans for additional residential centres and day academies highlight Independiente’s commitment to expanding their reach.

Deller’s ambition for Ecuador to become world champions, despite the country’s limited World Cup success, demonstrates his belief in the power of football to inspire and uplift.

The sale of Caicedo symbolises the idea that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve their dreams through dedication and hard work.