Nico Paz says he has mixed feelings after the international break, with the Argentina star, but he will also say goodbye to the iconic Lionel Messi, claiming he “doesn’t know” who will inherit the iconic Albiceleste shirt.
Nico Paz of Messi’s retirement and Como 0-0 Roma
Paz scored three goals from three appearances with Argentina’s national team during the September-October international spotlight, in which he was assisted by the legendary Messi in his final international appearance in a 3-0 victory over Benin.
Advertisement
The talented Como star is also tipped as one of the candidates to take the iconic no.10 shirt for Argentina, not only from Messi for 15 years, but also from Diego Maradona and several other legendary figures over the years.
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – OCTOBER 06: Nico Paz of Argentina celebrates the team’s second goal during an international friendly match between Argentina and Benin at Estadio Monumental Antonio V. Liberti on October 06, 2026 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Lionel Messi is making his final appearance for Argentina following the announcement of his international retirement on August 31. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Speaking to DAZN after Como’s full-time 0-0 draw against Roma in his return to Serie A action on Sunday, Paz insisted “I don’t know anyone” when asked if he had been told he would be taking over Messi’s no.10 shirt.
Advertisement
He went on to discuss his time with the Argentine national team: “It was an amazing two weeks. Saying goodbye to Messi was a sad day, but I also got over it. I scored some goals, had a few good games and now I want to do it and do it with Como.”
ITALY – OCTOBER 11: Nico Paz of Como 1907 is challenged by Leonardo Balerdi and Marten de Roon of AS Roma during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AS Roma at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Claudius Villa/Getty Images)
And, about the game against Roma itself, Paz said: “It’s difficult because they put a lot of players on the floor and we moved the ball around a bit faster, we opened up a little more. We can do everything and now we have to move on.”