The signing of Nico Paz by Real Madrid has turned into a real soap opera. Although there is a buy-back clause for only €8 million, valid until June 30, several factors have complicated his desired return from Como.
On one hand, Madrid's moves in the market (especially the recent signing of Mastantuono) have raised doubts about the role Xabi Alonso will be able to offer the 20-year-old. The Basque coach is looking to consolidate the midfield with reinforcements of proven profiles, which leaves Paz in a complicated situation. His talent is beyond any doubt, but his fit in the new summer project scheme doesn't seem as clear as it did at the beginning.
Siro López gives the latest on Nico Paz's return
The warning comes from the official voices themselves. Journalist Siro López was blunt on COPE: "The signing of Álvaro Carreras isn't complicated, because there's an agreement with the kid, but it gets complicated for him to be registered on the 10th to play in the World Cup. He traveled with Benfica to the United States, but that doesn't mean he's definitely included in the list. However, it has become complicated, and so has Nico Paz's situation, because until June 30, Real Madrid can't bring Nico Paz back."
This bureaucratic and sporting planning issue has caused concern in Chamartín. The clause expires just when the schedule tightens due to the FIFA platform. For Paz to be part of the team in the Club World Cup, his registration must be completed before July 1. However, until June 30, the white club can't make his signing official or include him in the global list.
Secondly, the new Real Madrid's priorities have been rearranged. After securing the arrivals of Trent Alexander‑Arnold and Dean Huijsen, and closing the deal for Álvaro Carreras... Florentino Pérez's sporting management has focused its attention on strengthening other positions. The midfield, where Nico Paz could fit, has become a secondary concern after the signing of Mastantuono, who offers a more physical and established profile in his career.
Nico Paz hesitates about his return to Real Madrid
The player's own wishes can't be ignored either. After shining in Italy, with 6 goals and 9 assists in 35 matches, Paz has gained sporting self-confidence. He doesn't want to return for a decorative role. His ambition, which is legitimate, is to play. If that means waiting for an opportunity or forcing a loan, it can't be ruled out that he may decide to stay at Como or even accept an offer from another club.
This combination of factors (registration risk, too many offers, uncertain sporting profile, and external pressures) makes the Nico Paz case a very delicate operation. Real Madrid must decide how much they value betting on homegrown talent versus strengthening the first team with proven players.