Lionel Messi stirred up major debate with the launch of his new Adidas campaign, “Messi +10: Season Two,” which highlights rising young football talents from across the globe. Although many expected Lamine Yamal or Franco Mastantonu to be featured, Messi surprised everyone by choosing a different prospect — a Real Madrid player.
A Shocking Pick: A Real Madrid Talent
Instead of the widely anticipated names, Messi chose Nico Paz, the young Argentine midfielder linked to Real Madrid. Messi explained that Paz has all the attributes needed to become a top-level footballer and would be a valuable asset to any long-term project.
Who Is Nico Paz?
Nico Paz has become one of Serie A’s breakout stars after joining Como last summer for €6 million. Even though he currently plays for Como, Real Madrid still owns 50% of his rights and retains a buy-back option, positioning him as a strong candidate to return to the club in the near future.
His performances have been impressive:
- Last season: 6 goals and 9 assists in 35 matches
- This season: 3 goals and 3 assists in just 6 games
His rapid development has made him one of Serie A’s brightest young players.
The Significance of Messi’s Choice
Messi’s endorsement comes at a time when Paz’s market value has risen to €55 million (per Transfermarkt). Although his value is soaring, Real Madrid could reportedly re-sign him for a much smaller fee, highlighting the strategic advantage they still hold.
Paz’s Outlook at Real Madrid
With the option to bring Paz back for only €9 million in the summer of 2024, Real Madrid may soon have a rising star returning to the Bernabéu — a move that could significantly strengthen their squad for the future.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Messi’s campaign suggests that a new generation of football stars is on the rise. His selection of Nico Paz underlines his belief in the emerging talents who will help shape the future of modern football.
