Former Real Madrid youth team star unlikely to return this summer – report | OneFootball

For months, Nico Paz’s return to Real Madrid looked like one of the easiest decisions the club would make this summer. 

The buyback clause was affordable at €9 million, his performances in Italy had exceeded expectations and the belief around Valdebebas was that the Argentine was ready for the next step.

Now, that scenario appears to be changing.

According to an update from Rodra, while speaking on Inaki Angulo’s YouTube channel, a return to Real Madrid ahead of this summer is currently considered difficult.

After flourishing under Cesc Fabregas at Como, the 21-year-old has strengthened his reputation as one of the most promising young attacking midfielders linked to Real Madrid. 

His development in Serie A has convinced many within the club that he remains part of the long-term project.

So what’s the problem?

Real Madrid are also linked with Enzo Fernandez. (Photo by Jay Biggerstaff/Getty Images)

While Real Madrid continue to rate the Argentine highly, the current first-team picture offers very few guarantees. 

The positions where Nico Paz naturally operates are already occupied by established stars, creating a situation where regular minutes would be difficult to promise.

Jude Bellingham remains a key figure in the team’s attacking structure, while Arda Guler is also expected to have a more prominent role moving forward. 

On top of that, Real Madrid continue to be linked with additional midfield reinforcements, including Enzo Fernandez, which would make competition even fiercer.

As a result, the conversation has shifted from whether Nico Paz is good enough for Real Madrid to whether Real Madrid can currently offer him the environment he needs.

So what now?

Nico Paz could stay at Como for another season. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)

One of the biggest mistakes top clubs can make with emerging talents is bringing them back too early.

Real Madrid’s recent success with young players has often come from careful planning rather than rushing development. 

That is why the club’s decision-makers are focused on creating a clear pathway before making any final move regarding Nico Paz.

At this stage of his career, consistent starts and continued responsibility could prove far more valuable than spending a season fighting for limited opportunities at the Santiago Bernabéu.

That is why another year under Cesc Fabregas is increasingly viewed as a logical solution.