Ecuadorian footballer Darwin Guagua to play in Spain's third division

Ecuadorian footballer Darwin Guagua has embarked on his first international career step, moving to Spain after concluding his time with Independiente del Valle. The club bid farewell to the young player on the evening of August 14, 2026, at Chillo Jijón.

Guagua has been transferred from Independiente del Valle to England's Brentford FC. While Brentford has played in the Premier League since the 2021-2022 season, Guagua will join Asociación Deportiva Mérida on loan as part of his adaptation. This club, which competes in Spain's third division, is owned by the same group as the English Premier League team.

Independiente del Valle expressed their pride in Guagua's new challenge, stating on social media, "Thank you Darwin Guagua (...) Today you embark on a new challenge and it fills us with pride to see you fly. Much success in this new stage! This will always be your home."

Guagua debuted for Independiente del Valle in 2025. Before his transfer, he played in 45 matches, scored four goals, provided five assists, and received six yellow cards in 2368 minutes. His name also gained attention for his controversial debut with the Ecuador national team in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chile in March of the previous year, despite not having played a single minute in Ecuador's top division.

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Thank you Darwin Guagua (...) Today you embark on a new challenge and it fills us with pride to see you fly. Much success in this new stage! This will always be your home.