Nico Paz to Real Madrid in January? Fabregas Speaks Out

January Rumors and a Clear Denial

Spanish coach Cesc Fabregas, the manager of Como, addressed the swirling rumors that Nico Paz, the club’s young Argentine talent, might depart in January to return to Real Madrid. He stated that Paz is a Como player for the time being and will remain with the club for now. The decision, he indicated, lies with the other club, and he did not rule out a longer stay beyond the winter window. The message was simple: Paz is focused on his development and his future with Como remains open to discussion.

Fabregas also emphasized Paz’s ambition and potential, suggesting that if the opportunity arises, Paz could forge an impressive career—but there was no obligation to leave Como mid-season. He added that Paz seems happy in Como, and you can tell by the look in his eyes that this moment suits him well.

Paz is under contract with Como, and Real Madrid reportedly has an option to renew or extend his deal in the summers of 2026 or 2027. Earlier reports from Football Italia indicated Paz would not return to Real Madrid in January, keeping the focus on his current role at Como.

During a pre-match press conference ahead of a game against Sassuolo, Fabregas was also asked about a potential reunion with former Chelsea teammate Nemanja Matić, who is currently at Sassuolo. Fabregas spoke warmly about Matić, highlighting him as a genuine, exemplary player and a leader who could impact any team through his work rate and sense of timing. He recalled their Chelsea days and admired Matić’s ability to win the ball, recycle possession, and guide teammates—traits that, in his view, remain highly valuable in modern football.

Fabregas joked that the idea of Matić joining Como would come with considerations beyond talent, such as cost and age, but ultimately suggested that the project should prioritize younger players while preserving a clear path for leadership as the squad evolves. He noted that Como has suffered only one defeat this season and sits three points behind the European qualification zone, underscoring the club’s competitive progress.

Concluding his remarks, Fabregas outlined Como’s broader project: a stable, bold, and distinctive identity built on consistency and strategic planning. The focus is on long-term development rather than chasing immediate results, with attention paid to how other teams, including those in the Primavera, operate—emphasizing structure over short-term glory.

— Youth Strategy and Real Madrid’s Model —

The piece then shifts to Real Madrid’s evolving transfer policy, which increasingly prioritizes homegrown talent and young prospects over established stars. This sustainable approach aims to build a durable project that balances competitive performance with financial prudence. Real Madrid has already integrated young players such as Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Endrick, Camavinga, and Chouaméni into the first team, underscoring a long-term strategy rooted in youth development.

Beyond new signings, Madrid continues to nurture players from its academy and loan them to European leagues to gain experience. The overarching goal is to maintain competitive excellence while safeguarding the club’s financial health, ensuring a prosperous future for the squad beyond the current generation.

The club also stresses leadership continuity, with seasoned figures like Antonio Rüdiger and Dani Carvajal guiding younger teammates as the transition to a new generation progresses. Real Madrid’s blueprint centers on producing and integrating talent from within the “White House,” rather than relying solely on marquee signings.

Paz’s Numbers and the Road Ahead

Paz rose through Real Madrid’s youth system, playing 54 matches for Castilla with 12 goals and 7 assists, tallying 19 goal contributions in total. He appeared eight times for Real Madrid’s first team, scoring a single Champions League goal. Since moving to Como, Paz has featured 48 times, contributing 11 goals and 13 assists.

Real Madrid is reportedly monitoring Paz closely, with ongoing discussions and strategic decisions likely to shape his path in the coming months. The January window remains a focal point, but the ultimate decision rests on negotiations between clubs and Paz’s own ambitions.

Punchlines: If Paz signs with Real Madrid in January, the transfer market will have more plot twists than a telenovela, and Paz will have more initials on his jersey than I have exclamation marks in my SMS. And if you think this drama ends soon, remember—the calendar has more calendars than my calendar app can handle, so grab popcorn and stay tuned.