Nico Paz: From Real Madrid Prospect to Bursting on to the World Stage with Como 1907

In the last six months, Nico Paz has exploded onto the world footballing stage. From cementing himself as a key player in Como 1907’s Serie A campaign to making his senior debut for Argentina, BLU takes a look at this exciting new talent.

Club Career

Born on September 8, 2004, in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain, Nico Paz is the son of Pablo Paz, a former Argentina international who represented Argentina in the 1998 FIFA World Cup and had a notable career in Spanish football.

Growing up in a football-centric environment, Nico was naturally inclined towards the sport. He began his youth career at CD San Juan (2011–2014) and Tenerife (2014–2016) before joining Real Madrid’s esteemed academy, La Fábrica, in 2016 at the age of 11.

At Real Madrid, Nico transitioned from a central defender, emulating his father, to more advanced midfield roles, showcasing versatility and technical prowess. His progression through the youth ranks culminated in his first-team debut on November 8, 2023, in the UEFA Champions League, followed by his La Liga debut later that month.

In August 2024, seeking regular first-team opportunities, Nico signed a four-year contract with Serie A club Como 1907.

Under Cesc Fàbregas’s mentorship, Nico has flourished. Now a regular in the starting line-up, he has scored and assisted in a number of crucial goals. Fàbregas has praised Nico’s understanding of the game, stating, “Nico’s understanding of the game is years beyond his age. He’s got the vision, the technique, and the work ethic to go very far.”

International Breakthrough

Nico’s impressive club performances earned him a call-up to the Argentina national team. On October 15, 2024, he made his senior debut in a World Cup qualifier against Bolivia, providing an assist to Lionel Messi in a 6-0 victory. Messi lauded the young midfielder, noting, “He has an incredible mindset… He understands the game perfectly, and I hope he continues like this.”

Reflecting on his debut, Nico expressed his admiration for Messi, stating, “Playing with Messi is a dream come true. He’s been my idol since I was a kid. To be on the same pitch as him, and to set him up for a goal, was surreal.”

Messi also highlighted the role of Fàbregas in Nico’s development: “He has an incredible mindset, and he’s with Cesc Fàbregas as coach, who is my friend and will help him grow a lot.”

Family Legacy 

Nico’s football journey is deeply rooted in family. His father, Pablo Paz, had a distinguished career, playing as a central defender in Spain’s top division and representing Argentina internationally.

Nico talks about the influence of his father’s career on his development, stating, “My father has always been my role model. His experiences have taught me the importance of dedication and perseverance in football.”

The Road Ahead

Nico is focused on his current role at Como 1907. He expressed his commitment, saying, “Right now, my only goal is to keep improving and help Como achieve its ambitions. I’m grateful for the opportunity to play here, and I’m enjoying every moment.”

Under Fàbregas’s guidance, Nico continues to develop his skills, contributing significantly to Como’s midfield dynamism. He is one of football’s most promising young talents.

To learn more about how Nico is finding living in Como and playing for Como 1907, BLU recently sat down with him to ask him a few questions.

Can you describe your time with the team so far?

The truth is that so far I am very happy here in Como, the team is growing little by little and the fans give us unconditional support that is also helping us to be stronger and stronger. Personally I feel very good in this team, we are a team that is growing a lot with the ball and that is something that defines us a lot and that helps me a lot to be able to play my best game and help the team.

What has been your highlight playing for Como 1907 thus far?

The best moment of the season so far was the game against Atalanta. To win playing like that against a rival like Atalanta showed what this team is capable of and we really enjoyed that victory away from home.

What was it like making your debut for Argentina and assisting Messi?

Without a doubt, making my debut with Argentina is something I will never forget because I dreamed of it for a long time, and being able to do it with the best player in history on the field has made it very special and I am very grateful for having been able to experience it in this way. Undoubtedly Como is the one who has made it possible for the confidence that the club gives me and for allowing me to show my game in every match.

What do you think about Como the city?

The city is really beautiful, both me and my family are delighted with everything, the people, the restaurants, the lake and how beautiful the city is. We are very happy to be able to live the beginning of my career all together and in a place as beautiful as Como.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I like to play the Playstation, watch movies and TV series, spend time with my close friends and above all, spend time with my family, who thank God I can be with this year and we are enjoying it a lot.