Real Madrid’s emerging talent, Nico Paz, has expressed his fervent desire to represent Argentina in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. In an interview with DSports Radio, Paz revealed his aspirations, stating that participating in the Olympics would be a dream come true for him, echoing the sentiments of his father who competed in the Atlanta 1996 Olympics.
However, Real Madrid’s policy of withholding players from Olympic participation, especially those already committed to UEFA Euro 2024 or the Copa America, presents a significant hurdle for Paz and his ambitions. The club’s stance has ignited a broader discussion, particularly regarding the potential inclusion of star forward Kylian Mbappe in France’s Olympic squad, given the event’s location in Paris.
Despite the challenges posed by club commitments, Paz remains steadfast in his desire to don the Argentine jersey in Paris. He expressed particular excitement at the prospect of sharing the pitch with legendary football icon Lionel Messi, emphasizing that it would be the epitome of his Olympic experience.
Reflecting on Argentina’s recent successes, including their World Cup triumph in 2022, Paz expressed admiration for Messi and his teammates, highlighting the profound impact of witnessing Messi hoist the World Cup trophy.
Born in Spain, Paz had the option to represent either Spain or Argentina internationally but ultimately chose the latter. He cited his deep connection to Argentina, influenced by the country’s rich football culture and his father’s illustrious career, which included Olympic and World Cup appearances.
Despite his limited playing time at Real Madrid, Paz remains optimistic about his future at both club and international levels. Transitioning from the youth ranks to the senior squad, Paz acknowledges the learning opportunities provided by seasoned professionals like Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, and recent signing Jude Bellingham.
Paz’s journey epitomizes the essence of perseverance and dedication, with his rapid progression from the youth team to the first team indicative of his potential. He views Real Madrid as the pinnacle of football excellence, acknowledging the club’s relentless pursuit of success and his determination to contribute to its legacy.
In , Nico Paz’s desire to represent Argentina in the Olympics underscores his passion for the game and his ambition to compete at the highest level. While challenges may lie ahead, Paz’s unwavering determination and admiration for his idols, particularly Messi, serve as driving forces in his pursuit of Olympic glory. As he continues to navigate his footballing journey, Paz remains committed to seizing every opportunity to fulfill his dreams on the pitch.