Less than three years have passed since Caicedo joined the Blues from Brighton and Hove Albion. But the steps taken by the Ecuadorian in that time have been significant.

He has developed into one of the game's finest midfielders, one who combines finesse, poise and intelligence with the ball with a determination and relentlessness without it. 

The 24-year-old has also become a leader within the squad. He has captained Chelsea on several occasions, most recently last weekend against Manchester City, and has become a reference point for aspiring youngsters within the game.

Yet Caicedo is a humble star. He often guides a conversation to the collective achievements of the Blues rather than focusing on his own successes, and that remains the case even when discussing what he hopes to still achieve at Stamford Bridge after extending his stay until 2033.

'I feel over the moon [to sign a new contract] because it's a dream to be here,' he says. 'I am really happy with these amazing years [I've already had] here and for what is coming.

'Together with everyone, we are going to bring more trophies to this club. This club deserves everything, which is why we are working hard, and I am working hard, to win those trophies.'

He adds: 'I am so happy with what I am doing here. Every day I’m learning something, and I’m going to try to be better every week because I want to give everything to the fans who come to the stadium to watch us. I am going to give everything for this club.'

Caicedo has made 140 appearances for the Blues since arriving in August 2023, a testament to his reliability, durability and importance within our midfield.

His performances have earned praise from team-mates, opponents and pundits. Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior also stated earlier this month that Caicedo is 'one of the best defensive midfield players, if not the best defensive midfield player, in world football'.

Caicedo takes such praise with his trademark modesty, but insists there is still room for him to grow and improve in the seasons ahead.

'When people talk about me like this, it’s special,' he says. 'I try to take those words and show people on the pitch – that is what I like to do. I don’t talk about myself, so that situation is so good. I get those words and they motivate me even more.

'I think the sky is the limit for me, to be honest. Even if I make mistakes on the pitch, they make me stronger, because in life, in everything you do, you will make mistakes and learn from them.

'Every day in training or when I'm playing, I learn something and take that into the other games. So I am really happy with what I am doing and what I am going to do going forward.'

Caicedo's leadership qualities have come to the fore over the past two seasons. He first captained the Blues in a UEFA Conference League qualifier against Servette at the start of the 2024/25 campaign and has worn the armband several times since.

He is a player who leads by example, on and off the pitch, and he does not take his role within the Chelsea squad lightly.

'It means a lot [to captain the side],' he says. 'Thinking about the armband...I enjoyed that moment because it’s not easy to earn the armband. 'Being here was a dream for me; I always prayed for these moments. Now I am enjoying them because it’s so special for my family back in Ecuador and me. I am very proud of myself and so happy.'

Caicedo has lifted two pieces of silverware during his time at Stamford Bridge. He scored in the final of the UEFA Conference League to ensure the Blues defeated Real Betis and completed our trophy haul, before then adding the FIFA Club World Cup.

There have been personal accolades along the way, too. He won our 2024 Goal of the Season award for an outstanding halfway-line strike against Bournemouth and, 12 months later, claimed the 2025 Players' Player of the Season award in addition to being voted supporters' Player of the Season.

Caicedo's relationship with the Chelsea faithful is one he hugely values. It pushes him on before and during games and has helped him through challenging moments during his time at Stamford Bridge.

'Before the start of games, when my name is called and they clap and shout, it’s so special for me,' he explains. 'I love them because in every moment, even in the bad moments, they are with us.

'For sure, we want to give everything to them and show that appreciation on the pitch. I try to do that in every game and I promise I’m going to give everything along with my team-mates. For sure, we will give everything to bring a trophy [the FA Cup] this season and do even better next season.'