Nico Paz explains why he didn’t return to Real Madrid

Nico Paz explains why he didn’t return to Real Madrid During the summer, Real Madrid could have re-signed Nico Paz, but in the end, the attacking midfielder ended up continuing at Como. The Bernabeu club triggered the €9m buy-back clause they had from the original deal two years ago, but the Serie A side ultimately coughed up €60m to retain his services . Paz has been a revelation in Italy ever since he joined Como in the summer of 2024. In total, he has racked up 37 goal contributions in 79 appearances, which is a very impressive record for a player that had barely played senior football prior to leaving Real Madrid. Paz’s form for Como made up Real Madrid’s mind to bring him back to the Bernabeu in the summer, but it was the player himself that preferred to stay in Italy. As per Diario AS , he explained why when speaking after providing two assists in Como’s impressive 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig in the Champions League on Thursday. “I thought this was where I would grow the most. I think I made the right decision, and I’m glad I did (stay at Como).” Real Madrid can re-sign Paz again in summer 2027 As part of the €60m deal done between Real Madrid and Como in the summer, Real Madrid retained another buy-back clause – this one being worth €80m. Club bosses are already thinking about activating this, especially if the 22-year-old manages to have another stellar season. However, Real Madrid will need to convince Paz to return, if indeed they decide to activate their buy-back clause. According to the report from Diario AS, he has concerns about a lack of playing time at the Bernabeu had he returned in summer 2026, given that he had Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler and Bernardo Silva as competition in the attacking midfield position. All three players are likely to remain at the club next season, which is why Paz’s concerns could remain if/when a return is discussed at the end of the current season.