Como sensation Nico Paz admits to watching Lionel Messi YouTube videos before matches to try and 'replicate' Argentina team-mate

Como sensation Nico Paz admits to watching Lionel Messi videos on YouTube as he attempts to “replicate” what the Inter Miami superstar is capable of. Paz is now an Argentina international team-mate of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, but continues to use his illustrious fellow countryman as a source of inspiration when it comes to enhancing his own game.

From the Canary Islands to Messi team-mate
Paz, who was born on the island of Tenerife and graduated out of the academy system at La Liga giants Real Madrid, has been in Italy since the summer of 2024. He helped Como to preserve their top-flight status during his debut campaign in Serie A.

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Assist for Messi on Argentina debut
International recognition came his way during that season, with an assist for Messi being recorded on his debut for the Albiceleste. Paz has started the 2025-26 campaign in positive fashion, registering two goals through four appearances.
Joining Messi at the 2026 World Cup?
The 21-year-old playmaker continues to be called upon by Argentina, taking his tally of caps to four, and will hope to form part of their World Cup title defence next summer. The expectation is that Messi will also grace that tournament despite questions being asked of his involvement.

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How Paz takes lessons from Argentine GOAT
Paz will have taken many more lessons from Messi by the time that competition rolls around, with endless hours being spent watching the Argentine GOAT in action. Paz told DAZN: "Playing alongside Messi, you can watch him and learn a lot from him. I always watch his videos on YouTube and want to learn as much as I can from him. Before every match, I watch his videos to see if I can replicate something."
Next big thing: Paz aiming for the top
That is an ambitious target, with Messi producing moments of magic on a regular basis that could never be replicated. Paz is, however, looking to learn from the best in a bid to one day form part of the global elite himself.