Diego Palacios


Diego José Palacios Espinoza, commonly known as "Chiqui", is an Ecuadorian professional footballer who plays as a left-back for Universidad Católica on loan from Corinthians and the Ecuador national team.
During the 2020 CONCACAF Champions Cup, he won the award for Best Young Player.

Club career

Early career

Born in Guayaquil, Palacios made his senior debut with Deportivo Azogues in the 2014 Segunda Categoría. After a short period at Norte América, he moved to Aucas in 2016 after both clubs had a partnership.
Palacios spent a season with the youth sides before making his first team debut for Aucas in 2017, in the Ecuadorian Serie B. A regular starter, he helped the club in their promotion to the Ecuadorian Serie A, and made his debut in the category in 2018.

Willem II

In July 2018 he agreed a season long loan with Willem II. He made his debut in the Dutch Eredivisie on 11 August 2018 playing the full 90 minutes against VVV-Venlo.

Los Angeles FC

On 12 August 2019, Palacios signed a contract with Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC.

Corinthians

On 2 January 2024, Palacios was announced at Corinthians.

International career

In October 2018 he made his debut for the Ecuador national team in a friendly game against the Qatar national team.
Palacios was selected in the 28 player Ecuador squad for the 2021 Copa América.
Palacios was named in the Ecuadorian squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Honours

Los Angeles FC
Ecuador U20
Corinthians
Individual