Real Madrid have done a great job, developing young talents signed from around the world into first-team superstars. The club do not have a great record when it comes to bringing through their Castilla standouts into the senior team though. And this summer, many of them could be on their way out in search of opportunities elsewhere.
The likes of Rafa Marin, Sergio Arribas and Carlos Dotor have all all been touted as first-team stars while coming through the youth ranks. But all three have been linked with exits this summer, after failing to make a position for themselves in the first-team squad.
On the other hand, it looks like there is another youngster who is earning a lot of plaudits at Castilla. That is none other than 18-year-old midfielder, Nico Paz.
As reported by The Athletic, Paz is viewed as the crown jewel of Real Madrid’s academy. Some at Castilla even compare him to Manchester City superstar, Kevin De Bruyne, because of the quality of the youngster’s final pass, his finishing from range and also his power when striking the ball.
Real Madrid wonderkid compared to Manchester City superstar
Paz is only 18 years of age and it is very clear that he is very highly rated. But it will be very difficult for him to break into the first-team.
Real Madrid are stacked with quality in the middle of the park. Even if Toni Kroos and Luka Modric leave in the near future, they would still have the likes of Eduardo Camavinga, Fede Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni and Arda Guler. None of them are even in their primes yet and some not even close.
Thus, Paz will have to perform at an incredible level, if he gets into Real Madrid’s midfield. It would be a mistake to rule that out though, considering how highly he is rated.