A young talent with a bright future who could return to Bernabéu, but only if his conditions are met

Jude Bellingham has become a fundamental pillar in Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid. His ability to dictate the tempo, contribute defensively, and arrive decisively in attack makes him indispensable. He is the axis around which Madrid’s midfield revolves.

But things could have been different. Nico Paz, one of the brightest gems from La Fábrica, looked ready to compete for a place alongside Bellingham. With exceptional technical ability and elite vision, he seemed destined to take on an important first-team role.

Instead, he’s walked away.

Real Madrid’s Youth Academy Policy

Real Madrid have long followed a pragmatic approach with their academy talents. Only a select few break directly into the starting lineup. Raúl Asencio was one of the rare beneficiaries due to an injury crisis in defense.

Under Florentino Pérez, the model is clear:

Develop the players, Sell or loan them for experience, Buy them back later—if they prove themselves elsewhere.

Examples of this strategy include Carvajal, Morata, Lucas Vázquez, Callejón, and Fran García. Madrid also monitor other former academy players like Obrador, Rodríguez, Andrés, Muñoz, Ramón, and Marvel across Europe.

Nico Paz’s Breakout… Outside Madrid

Paz had already shown he was ready. He debuted, scored, and demonstrated maturity beyond his years. But Carlo Ancelotti never fully trusted him, forcing him to remain with Castilla. Not even:

Toni Kroos’s retirement, Luka Modrić’s age, or Midfield shortages

were enough to open the door.

So, over a year ago, Paz made a bold decision. He left for Como in Serie A, where Cesc Fàbregas promised him a starring role. He kept his word — Nico Paz is now one of the most promising young midfielders in Italy, with three goals and three assists in six matches this season.

Madrid Want Him Back — But There’s a Condition

Real Madrid are ready to trigger their €10 million buy-back clause. However, Paz has drawn a clear line:

He will only return if Xabi Alonso guarantees him a starting role.

At just 21 years old, he’s chosen ambition over loyalty. He refuses to return only to sit on the bench. He wants responsibility — and he believes he has earned it.

Nico Paz’s decision is not a goodbye — it’s a challenge.

Now, it’s up to Real Madrid:

Will they bring him home as a protagonist… or lose another star they helped create?