Every FIFA World Cup has a moment when an unknown player suddenly becomes the tournament’s biggest story. And if history is anything to go by, 2026 might just belong to Nico Paz.
We’re all talking about Lamine Yamal making his World Cup debut for Spain. We’re hyped about Désiré Doué going to the World Cup with France after helping PSG lift the Champions League trophy. But while the spotlight chases the obvious names, there’s a quieter storm building in Argentina’s squad.
What History Keeps Teaching Us About the World Cup
Before we get to Nico Paz, let’s do a quick history check — because the World Cup has a habit of humbling the favorites and crowning the unexpected.
- 2014: James Rodríguez came out of nowhere to win the Golden Boot for Colombia. Nobody predicted that.
- 2018: Croatia — a small nation — made it all the way to the World Cup Final. A fairytale nobody wrote.
- 2022: Argentina were the favorites. Then Saudi Arabia beat them 2–1 in the group stage. Shock of the tournament.
The pattern is clear. The World Cup doesn’t follow the script. So when everyone is busy talking about the big stars, maybe it’s worth asking: who’s being overlooked this time?
Meet Nico Paz — Argentina’s Secret Weapon
At just 21 years old, Nico Paz is preparing to make his World Cup debut with Argentina, and very few people are paying attention.
He plays for Como in Serie A — not exactly the club you’d expect a future World Cup star to come from. But his numbers from the 2025–26 season are impossible to ignore.
| Stat | Figure |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 35 |
| Goals | 12 |
| Assists | 6 |
| League Finish | 4th Place (Serie A) |
| Achievement | First-ever Champions League qualification for Como |
| Individual Award | Serie A Best Midfielder 2025–26 |
He didn’t just perform. He elevated an entire club to a historic milestone.
Why Nico Paz Is Built for the World Cup Stage
Nico Paz isn’t just a goal scorer. He’s the complete package — and that’s what makes him dangerous at a World Cup level.
Here’s what makes him special:
- Left-footed creativity — rare and difficult to defend against
- Vision and passing range — keeps attacking momentum alive for teammates
- Dribbling ability — comfortably takes on and beats multiple players
- Long-range shooting — a genuine threat from distance
- Football IQ — reads the game at a level beyond his years
At 21, most players are still figuring out their position. Nico Paz already looks like a seasoned midfielder operating at the highest level.
How He Fits Into Argentina’s World Cup Squad
Argentina’s attack is built around two legends: Lionel Messi and Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martínez, who was named Best Forward of 2026. They’re a world-class partnership — but they need a creative link to unlock spaces.
With Ángel Di María no longer in the picture, Argentina needed someone to fill that creative, dynamic role behind the front line.
Nico Paz fits perfectly.
He can operate between the lines, supply Messi and Martínez, and still contribute goals on his own. If he gets the nod to start, he could be the player who takes this Argentine side to the next level at the World Cup.
The World Cup Always Has a Breakout Star — Could It Be Nico Paz?
Right now, Nico Paz isn’t trending. He’s not on the front pages. He’s not in the pre-tournament conversations.
But that’s exactly the profile that fits every World Cup breakout story ever told.
The 2026 World Cup could be where Nico Paz introduces himself to the world in the biggest way possible. The talent is there. The form is there. The platform is about to be there.
And if Argentina go deep — which they absolutely can — don’t be surprised if Nico Paz is the name on everyone’s lips by the end of the tournament.
He has everything it takes to win the FIFA Best Young Player award at this World Cup. The only question is: will the world be watching when it happens?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Nico Paz, and why is he relevant for the World Cup?
Nico Paz is a 21-year-old Argentine midfielder playing for Como in Serie A. He’s set to make his World Cup debut with Argentina in 2026 and has been one of Serie A’s standout performers this season.
What were Nico Paz’s stats in the 2025–26 season?
He scored 12 goals and provided 6 assists in 35 matches, helped Como finish 4th in Serie A, earned their first-ever Champions League qualification, and was named Serie A’s Best Midfielder for 2025–26.
Why could Nico Paz be a surprise at the 2026 World Cup?
History shows that every World Cup produces an unexpected breakout star — from James Rodríguez to Croatia’s entire run in 2018. Nico Paz has the talent, form, and the right team around him to be that player in 2026.
How does Nico Paz fit into Argentina’s World Cup squad?
He’s expected to play alongside Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez, filling the creative midfield role left vacant by Ángel Di María. His vision, dribbling, and goal threat make him an ideal fit.
Could Nico Paz win the FIFA Best Young Player at the World Cup?
Absolutely. If Argentina performs well and Nico Paz delivers consistent displays at the World Cup, he has a very real shot at winning the FIFA Best Young Player award in 2026.
I’m a football writer, covering top leagues like the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, and Ligue 1. I write about match analysis, football news, tactics, and major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup, delivering clear, engaging insights for fans.
About The Author
