Nico Paz chooses to remain with Como over returning to Real Madrid

Attacking midfielder Nico Paz elected to remain with Como this summer rather than returning to Real Madrid. Although the Spanish club triggered a €9m buy-back clause, the Serie A side successfully retained the 22-year-old by meeting a €60m valuation. Paz cited a desire for consistent playing time as the primary factor in his decision, noting the high level of competition for midfield minutes at the Bernabeu. Real Madrid maintains an €80m buy-back clause that can be activated in the summer of 2027. Paz recently recorded two assists in a 4-1 Champions League victory over RB Leipzig, reinforcing his role as a key contributor in Italy. His decision to stay reflects a strategic focus on individual growth rather than joining a roster already featuring Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler, and Bernardo Silva.

• 9:35 PMYahoo Sports — Nico Paz explains his decision to reject Real Madrid return this summer
• 8:05 AMYahoo Sports — Nico Paz explains why he didn’t return to Real Madrid