Nico Paz, the son of an Albiceleste footballer who participated in the 1998 World Cup, is rapidly emerging as one of the most thrilling talents in Serie A. Following another standout performance against Napoli recently, the attacking midfielder has firmly established himself as a player to keep an eye on.
Paz initially showcased his footballing prowess against Napoli on 29 November 2023, long before the Spanish-born Argentine began to garner consistent attention this season while playing for Como.
On that notable evening, during the fifth matchday of the 2023-24 Champions League group stage, Napoli made their way to the Santiago Bernabeu. At that time, the Italian team, managed by Walter Mazzarri, was struggling in the league and eager to find success on the European front.
As the match looked destined to end in a 2-2 stalemate, Paz, who came on as a substitute for Brahim Diaz, changed the course of the game with a left-footed strike from distance that deceived Alex Meret, ultimately sealing a 4-2 triumph for Los Blancos.
That evening, few fans could have predicted the trajectory of this blonde, almost vintage creative midfielder, whose development and nurturing have allowed him to integrate seamlessly into the contemporary game.
Major Impact
Paz’s first senior goal was a dramatic entrance, instantly thrusting him into the spotlight at one of the world’s most prestigious clubs.
Although his undeniable talent wasn’t quite enough to secure a spot in Real’s first team right away, it drew the attention of Como’s manager, Cesc Fabregas.
At just 20 years old, Paz, who holds an Argentine passport but was raised in Spain, has become a vital component of Fabregas’ vision. After only a few league appearances, the Spanish coach recognised Paz’s significance to his side.
Operating in a 4-2-3-1 system as a central attacking midfielder, Paz showcased his exceptional creativity and fluidity in a newly promoted side from the outset.
His ability to play with his back to the goal and create space in crucial areas has seen him occasionally deployed as a false centre forward as well.
In his latest impressive outing against Napoli, where he not only excelled in possession but also delivered the match-winning assist to Assane Diao, Paz’s stature in Serie A continues to rise.
International Recognition
A South American talent influenced by European football, Paz embodies a blend of diverse styles.
He possesses the left-footed finesse reminiscent of his illustrious compatriots Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi, but his passion for the game comes from his father Pablo, who played as a defender without making a remarkable impact at the highest level.
Pablo’s eight-year tenure at Tenerife fostered a fondness for the Canary Islands, where Nico, Como’s second-highest scorer with six goals trailing only Cutrone, was born on 8 September 2004.
What sets Nico apart is his remarkable maturity. He consistently demands the ball, whether marked or unmarked. This trait caught the eye of Argentina’s manager Lionel Scaloni, who recently awarded him his debut against Bolivia in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match.
In that match, Paz assisted Messi for the final goal in a resounding 6-0 victory.
Unsurprisingly, his outstanding performances have piqued the interest of numerous top clubs across Europe, including Inter Milan. A move could be on the horizon, or there’s the possibility of returning to the Bernabeu, where his journey began against Napoli back in November 2023.
While it won’t be easy given Real’s star-studded squad, it would undoubtedly be a dream scenario for Paz.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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