Fábregas, firm on Nico Paz to Inter rumours: «He's at Como or Real Madrid» | OneFootball

While the focus is on whether he will manage to make Argentina’s squad for the next World Cup, and amid rumors of possible interest from Inter, Como head coach Cesc Fàbregas came out strongly to clarify the reports surrounding the future of talented Argentine midfielder Nicolás Paz. The Spaniard was categorical, assuring that the player will play “at Como or at Real Madrid,” but not for the Nerazzurri.

“Nico is 50% a Como player, but he is ours. The only club that can say anything is Real Madrid. If I can say one thing, I know it for certain: Nico Paz will not play for Inter. Either he returns to Real Madrid or he plays for Como next year,” said the former Spanish midfielder.

The remarks came after public praise from Javier Zanetti, vice president of the Nerazzurri, who had highlighted both the footballing qualities and the personal character of the 21-year-old youngster. “I love Nico Paz, the way he plays and who he is as a person. His father was my roommate at the 1998 World Cup. I’m happy about his current form; great players are naturally sought after by great clubs,” the former defender had said.

However, the Italian side’s coach made it clear that those comments did not sit entirely well with him. “Javier Zanetti has spoken about Nico Paz? I’m sorry. Zanetti has been a very important figure in the world of football; he knows well how things work. The only club that can say anything is Real Madrid. I know Zanetti does not work for either Real Madrid or Como, so respect must be shown,” he replied.

He also reiterated his stance firmly: “There are also little messages I don’t like. If you allow me to say one thing, I’m clear on this: Nico Paz will not play for Inter. Either he will return to Real Madrid or he will play for Como next season.”

The Argentine’s future depends largely on the Spanish club, which retained 50% of his rights after selling him to Como in mid-2024 for six million euros. In addition, Los Blancos kept buy-back options for nine and ten million euros for 2026 and 2027, respectively.

The midfielder’s development has driven up his market value. According to Transfermarkt, he is currently valued at close to 65 million euros. Last season he played 40 matches, scored 13 goals, and provided eight assists, making him one of the standout players for the Lombardy side.

At the same time, the player is closely monitoring the progress of discomfort in his right knee. The injury occurred against Hellas Verona and led to a member of the Argentina national team’s medical staff traveling to Italy to monitor his recovery. For now, his presence in the Serie A finale against Cremonese has not yet been confirmed.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.