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Wednesday marked a defining moment for Nico Paz, who announced himself on the biggest stage by masterminding Como's stunning 4–1 Champions League triumph over Manchester United.
The 22-year-old Argentine international claimed UEFA's Player of the Match honor following a display in which he netted twice and contributed an assist against the three-time European champions.
It was a commanding, unmissable performance from the young playmaker, formerly of Real Madrid, who has long been touted as one of European football's brightest young talents and a potential cornerstone for Argentina in a post-Lionel Messi era. After taking United apart—and potentially putting Michael Carrick's position in jeopardy—the broader football world now knows the hype is very justified.
Speaking to Movistar Plus following the game, Madrid legend and former youth coach Raúl González described Paz as "possibly the best player I've ever worked with."
Can Real Madrid Re-Sign Paz?
Raúl worked alongside Paz during his teenage years at Madrid's La Fábrica academy, which the player joined from Tenerife back in 2016.
The youngster went on to make eight senior appearances for Los Blancos during the 2023–24 campaign, netting his sole goal in a Champions League encounter against Napoli.
That same summer, Paz completed a $6.7 million (€6 million) switch to Serie A newcomers Como, where he has since flourished—finding the net 13 times last season and earning the league's Best Midfielder award for 2025–26.
Heading into this summer, widespread speculation suggested Real Madrid would exercise a buyback clause worth approximately €9 million ($10 million) to bring the rapidly progressing attacking midfielder back to the Bernabéu. However, it was confirmed in June that Paz would remain at Como for the club's inaugural Champions League campaign, with the Italian side and Madrid agreeing a new €60 million ($67 million) arrangement to retain his rights and extend his time in Italy through to 2028.
The deal eliminates Madrid's previous buyout options and sell-on clauses, but grants Los Blancos a fresh buy-out clause set at €80 million ($90 million)—one that only they, and no other club, can activate. That clause is reportedly only valid during the summer of 2027. In effect, Madrid would be paying just €20 million ($22.5 million) net should they choose to bring Paz back in a year's time.
So Madrid can still bring Paz back next summer, but the question remains whether they will. The playmaker fills a central No. 10 role under Cesc Fàbregas at Como—a position strikingly similar to that occupied by established superstar Jude Bellingham. Los Blancos also have Arda Güler, another of Europe's most exciting young talents, capable of playing in behind the striker. As a result, a clear route to regular minutes at Madrid is far from obvious—though that has rarely deterred president Florentino Pérez.
'Historic Night'—Paz Revels in United Win
Reflecting on Wednesday's eye-catching victory over United, Paz described the occasion as one he will never forget.
"It's one of the most special nights of my life and career, for me and for the club," he told TNT Sports. "I'm still young, but I'll never forget it. It was a historic night because we played against one of the greatest clubs of all time, and to do this at home is incredible. We're very happy with our performance."
"We have to enjoy every match like we did today. We have to try to repeat this performance. This is historic, it's the first time we're in the Champions League and we have to enjoy it."