Willian Pacho, a product of Independiente del Valle’s youth system, shared details about his time in Paris and reflected on key moments in his remarkable career, which includes a World Cup call-up, a Copa América, and five titles won across Ecuador, Belgium, and France.
The Ecuadorian defender is known for believing in rituals and superstitions that have worked for him in the past. That’s why he wears the number 51 jersey—the same number he wore when he made his professional debut. “When I debuted for Independiente del Valle, I wore number 51. It brought me luck, so I’ve kept it ever since.”
In an interview with PSG’s official media, Pacho highlighted the influence of his mentor, Spanish coach Miguel Ángel Ramírez —the man who gave him his first-team debut at Independiente. Pacho still follows a piece of advice Ramírez gave him, which has become a personal mantra.
“Ramírez always used to tell me that my worst training session should never be too far from my best one. That I should always train with the same intensity and commitment,” said Pachito during the interview.
