If you thought Moisés Caicedo’s return to action was all good news for those following the Chelsea midfielder, think again. Back in Ecuador, things are looking a lot less positive for him.
Months after the World Cup, his commitment for the national team is still being questioned back home.
Of course the midfielder missed Ecuador’s latest international break because of injury. That meant he had no chance to respond to the criticism which followed his country’s disappointing World Cup campaign.
Meanwhile, Chelsea have already welcomed him back. Caicedo played 72 minutes in their 5-1 win over Bournemouth, helping the Blues regain control of midfield after a difficult run without him.
It’s quite a contrast. In London, his importance is hardly up for debate. Back in Ecuador, there’s still a feeling that the country’s biggest star owes them more.
Ecuador still waiting for ‘Chelsea’s version’ of Caicedo
Ecuadorian outlet El Futbolero brought the discussion back this weekend, highlighting how differently Caicedo is viewed in England and his homeland.
The report explains that some supporters have even labelled him “pecho frío”, roughly meaning someone who lacks passion or struggles to deliver in important moments.
Much of that frustration comes from Ecuador’s elimination against Mexico at the 2026 World Cup. Caicedo struggled to influence that 2-0 defeat.
At the time, El Comercio questioned his leadership and his ability to make a difference when Ecuador needed him most. There were also complaints about his attacking contribution and set-piece delivery.
On his column, pundit Andrés Ávila was equally critical. He said: “That commanding version of Caicedo, which we saw throughout the season in England, never really appeared in an Ecuador shirt.”
He also questioned the Chelsea midfielder’s personality and his ability to lift his teammates when Ecuador were under pressure.
Different expectations, different responsibilities
There’s an interesting point behind all this. At Chelsea, Caicedo’s work often goes unnoticed until he’s missing. His positioning, ball recoveries and simple passes help the team function.
The Blues failed to win any of their three Premier League matches immediately before his return against Bournemouth. Of course he was subbed in when the score was very much settled, but his comeback coincided with a convincing victory.
For Ecuador, the expectations seem different. Caicedo is one of the country’s biggest names, and supporters want him to take charge when matches become difficult. His defensive numbers aren’t necessarily enough to satisfy them.
That probably explains why some of the criticism has continued despite his excellent reputation in England.
His absence from the latest international squad, caused by his injury, has also delayed his opportunity to change that perception.
For now, Chelsea have their midfielder back and performing well. Ecuadorian supporters will have to wait a little longer to see whether he can bring the same authority to the national team.
And judging by the reaction to his World Cup performances, he’ll have plenty to prove when that opportunity comes.
