EXCLUSIVE: Nico Paz's father on 'emotional' debut, Como move & Real's buy-back option

From the 1998 World Cup to the one in 2026: This is a love story with Argentina passed down from generation to generation...

In the stands, watching the starting debut of the talented Nico Paz, was his father Pablo, visibly moved to see his son following in his own historic footsteps, wearing the Albiceleste shirt at the World Cup.

Speaking exclusively to Flashscore, the former defender shared his tears of joy over Nico's first World Cup start and clarified his transfer situation, confirming his permanent stay at Como as well as Real Madrid's buy-back option.

What was it like to see your son starting at the World Cup for the first time?

"It was emotional. He had already made his absolute debut in the previous match, but seeing him on the pitch from the first minute in a World Cup game is something indescribable."

What emotions did you feel when you saw him start from the first minute?

"So many memories came back to me. It was an incredibly strong emotion: I cried, as I have been doing for the past two weeks. Seeing my son achieve his greatest dream is something incredible."

What do you expect from this World Cup, from your son, and from Argentina?

"I think the team is doing very well. There's an extraordinary group. Nico is calm and happy. We hope they can keep going this way and reach the end of the tournament."

Nico Paz will play for Como again next season. Why did you make this decision?

"His wish was exactly to stay one more year at Como. It was a tough choice because Real Madrid really wanted him, but even Los Blancos thought that another season in Italy, with the chance to play in the Champions League, would be the best solution for his development.

"If the buy-back clause is exercised, he can return to Madrid in the future. For now, he's happy because he feels great at Como and feels very appreciated."

Was Como the best choice for Nico?

"Yes, absolutely. For everything: the environment, the club's project, the coach. He's happy there, and when a player feels good and valued, it means he's in the right place. I really think it was the best choice for him."

Real Madrid's buy-back option

So, there is a buy-back option for Real Madrid in the agreement with Como?

"Yes, in principle, there is a buy-back clause in the contract. There are still some details to define and fine-tune, such as the price, for example."

How far can Como go next season?

"The project is very ambitious. The club is making major investments and will make more. It will be a competitive team, especially since they'll be playing on a stage like the Champions League. Improving on last season won't be easy at all, but I believe they have every chance to have another great campaign."

Was it Nico who specifically asked to stay at Como?

"Yes, absolutely. He's happy, he really wanted to continue this journey, and he feels really good with everyone there."

Does he also enjoy living in Italy?

"Yes, very much. He was welcomed in the best possible way and is treated with great affection in every respect. The human side is also very important, and it makes him feel at ease."

What would make this World Cup perfect?

"A goal from Nico would be the ultimate happiness for me. But the most important thing of all is that he's happy, enjoys himself on the pitch and, of course, that Argentina manages to win the World Cup!"