A Young Star Who Could Return to the Bernabéu — On His Terms
Jude Bellingham has become the beating heart of Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid. His ability to dictate tempo, press defensively, and arrive decisively in the box makes him indispensable — the axis around which the midfield turns.
But the script could have been different. Nico Paz, one of La Fábrica’s brightest products, once looked set to partner Bellingham in Madrid’s engine room. Blessed with superb technique and vision, he seemed destined for a first-team role.
Instead, he walked away.
Madrid’s Academy Model
Real Madrid’s approach to academy players has long been pragmatic. Only a select few make the direct leap to the starting XI. Most follow the well-known cycle under Florentino Pérez:
Develop → Loan or sell for experience → Buy back later if they shine.
It’s a formula seen with Carvajal, Morata, Lucas Vázquez, Callejón, and most recently Fran García. Madrid continue tracking others — Obrador, Rodríguez, Andrés, Muñoz, Ramón, and Marvel — scattered across Europe.
Nico Paz’s Breakthrough — Away from Madrid
Paz had shown signs he was ready. He debuted, scored, and played with maturity beyond his years. Yet Carlo Ancelotti never gave him a permanent chance. Even with Toni Kroos retiring, Luka Modrić aging, and the squad suffering midfield shortages, the door to the first team remained closed.
So, over a year ago, Paz made a bold move: he joined Como in Serie A, lured by Cesc Fàbregas’s promise of a leading role. Fàbregas delivered — and so did Paz. Now, at 21, he is one of Italy’s most exciting young midfielders, with three goals and three assists in his first six matches this season.
Madrid Want Him Back — But He Sets the Rules
Real Madrid are prepared to activate their €10 million buy-back clause. But Nico Paz has made his position clear:
He will only return if Xabi Alonso guarantees him a starting role.
For Paz, ambition outweighs loyalty. He has no intention of returning to sit on the bench. He wants responsibility — and believes he’s earned it.
Not a Farewell, but a Challenge
Paz’s stance is not a goodbye to Madrid. It’s a challenge.
Now the decision lies with Real Madrid:
Will they bring him back as a central figure — or risk losing another star they themselves created?
