Rising Star Nico Paz Shares How Lionel Messi Inspired His Game

At just 21, Nico Paz is emerging as a prominent young talent in Serie A. Playing for Como 1907 under manager Cesc Fabregas, the midfielder has scored eight goals and provided 10 assists in 54 matches, standing out as a key player for his team and a rising star in the league. Paz attributes some of his success to the influence of Lionel Messi.

Having started his career at Real Madrid, Paz received a call-up to Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina squad, where he had the opportunity to train and play with Messi—a game-changing experience, according to him.

“Playing alongside Messi allows you to observe and learn so much from him,” Paz shared with DAZN after scoring in Como’s 1–1 match against Genoa during the third matchday of Serie A.

Paz doesn’t just rely on his time with Messi on the field; he actively studies his play. “I constantly watch his videos on YouTube and try to absorb everything I can from him,” he said. “Before each game, I check his highlights to see what I can mimic.”

Playing with Messi is a dream come true

Nico Paz had a memorable debut with the Argentina national team in their 6–0 win against Bolivia during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. He not only witnessed a hat-trick from Lionel Messi but also assisted the superstar.

In an interview with TNT Sports, Paz expressed how surreal it was to play alongside Messi. “It was very special because I thought I wouldn’t get the opportunity,” he said. “I believed Messi would retire before I made it to the national team, if I ever did. Therefore, meeting him and realizing he is just a regular person who genuinely supports young players was incredible.”

Paz’s impressive start in Serie A

Paz has already made a significant impact in Italy’s top league, scoring against Lazio and Genoa. With two goals so far, he is just one goal behind the league’s top scorer Marcus Thuram from Inter, tying with well-known players like Hakan Calhanoglu (Inter Milan), Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli), Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus), and Charles De Ketelaere (Atalanta).

Gianni Taina is a bilingual journalist, fluent in English and Spanish, with expertise in soccer, the NBA, and tennis. His career began in 2020 with Mundo Deportivo US, where he developed his writing skills. He has covered major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the NBA Finals, and Grand Slam tournaments such as the French Open. His ability to report live and work under pressure has made him a valuable part of a leading journalism team. In 2024, he joined Bolavip US, covering a diverse range of sports, including European soccer, MLS, and the NBA.