A left-footed attacking midfielder with exceptional close control, Paz possesses several qualities associated with Messi. His ability to glide past defenders, deliver precise passes and produce curling shots has made him an exciting prospect for supporters and football observers alike.
The comparisons are particularly striking when Paz moves into central attacking positions. Comfortable receiving possession in crowded areas, he can change direction quickly, create space and identify passing opportunities that might escape less technically accomplished players.
Although comparisons with Messi inevitably bring considerable expectations, Paz has been establishing an identity of his own through increasingly assured performances.
From Real Madrid’s Academy to Italian Football
Born in Tenerife, Spain, Paz comes from a family with strong connections to Argentine football. His father, Pablo Paz, is a former Argentina international who represented his country during his professional playing career.
Despite growing up in Spain, the younger Paz chose to represent Argentina internationally, maintaining his family’s footballing connection with the South American nation.
His development took shape within Real Madrid’s youth system, where he progressed through the ranks and gained valuable experience in one of Europe’s most demanding football environments.
The midfielder subsequently moved to Como in 2024, seeking greater opportunities to establish himself at senior level. The transfer proved significant for his development, allowing him to gain regular first-team experience and assume greater responsibility in attacking positions.
At Como, Paz has become an important figure in the team’s attacking structure. His ability to link midfield with the forward line, retain possession under pressure and contribute directly to goals has helped him emerge as one of the club’s most promising players.
Former Spain international Cesc Fàbregas, who manages Como, has played an important role in the youngster’s development. Having represented Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea during his distinguished playing career, Fàbregas brings considerable experience of creative midfield play.
Under his guidance, Paz has continued developing his tactical awareness, decision-making and ability to influence matches.
Champions League Brilliance Against Manchester United
Paz’s growing reputation received a major boost on 21 October 2026, when he inspired Como to a remarkable 4-1 victory over Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia.
The Argentine delivered an outstanding individual performance, scoring twice and providing an assist as Fàbregas’s side overwhelmed their English opponents.
He opened the scoring in the second minute with a beautifully executed left-footed finish, curling the ball beyond goalkeeper Senne Lammens. The early breakthrough immediately established Como’s attacking intent and offered another example of the technique that has prompted comparisons with Messi.
Paz then turned provider in the 49th minute, supplying a perfectly weighted pass for Anastasios Douvikas to double Como’s advantage.
Eight minutes later, the midfielder struck again. After winning possession, he surged forward and finished confidently with his left foot, extending the hosts’ lead to three goals.
Jacobo Ramón added Como’s fourth in the 76th minute before Joshua Zirkzee scored a consolation goal for Manchester United in stoppage time.
The result represented a significant European achievement for Como, while Paz’s contribution demonstrated his ability to influence matches against established continental opposition.
Following Messi Into the Record Books
Paz’s performance also earned him a place in Champions League history.
At 22 years and 43 days old, he became the youngest player to register at least three direct goal contributions in a Champions League match against Manchester United.
He also became the second-youngest South American to score against the English club in the competition, behind Messi, who was 21 years and 337 days old when he scored for Barcelona in the 2009 Champions League final.
The statistical connection has added another dimension to comparisons between the two Argentines, although their respective careers remain at vastly different stages.
According to the figures provided in the original report, Paz has recorded seven goals and six assists across his latest 11 appearances for Como and Argentina combined. Such attacking productivity illustrates his increasing influence and suggests that his development is extending beyond occasional moments of individual brilliance.
Argentina’s Number 10 Legacy
For Argentina, the question of who might eventually inherit Messi’s creative responsibilities remains one of the most intriguing aspects of the national team’s future.
Messi’s achievements have established an extraordinary benchmark. His leadership during Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph, alongside his success in the Copa América, has secured his position among the country’s greatest sporting figures.
Any player considered a potential successor will inevitably face intense scrutiny.
Paz, however, offers Argentina an encouraging combination of youth, technical ability and experience in European football. His versatility across attacking midfield positions could make him a valuable option as the national team continues to develop its next generation.
Following his memorable performance against Manchester United, Paz described the occasion as one of the finest experiences of his career.
“One of the most beautiful matches of my career. I will never forget it. It is more than I ever dreamed of,” he said, according to the original report.
For now, the comparisons with Messi remain a reflection of potential rather than an indication of equal achievement. Sustained performances at club and international level will ultimately determine how far Paz can progress.
Yet his emergence has given Argentine supporters another exciting talent to follow. Whether he eventually inherits the famous number 10 shirt or establishes a different legacy, Nico Paz is increasingly demonstrating that he possesses the qualities required to become a major figure in Argentina’s footballing future.
