What happened: Argentina international Nico Paz has informed Real Madrid executives that he will remain at Como for the 2026-27 season instead of returning to the Santiago Bernabéu. The 21-year-old midfielder was the subject of a €9 million buy-back clause that Madrid intended to trigger following his breakout campaign in Italy.

Why it matters: Paz prioritizes guaranteed playing time at Como, who recently qualified for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in club history. Reports indicate that new Real Madrid manager José Mourinho, who recently oversaw the signing of Marc Cucurella, could not offer Paz a starting role, prompting the player to continue his development under Cesc Fàbregas.

What to watch: Paz will lead Como's historic European debut while Real Madrid continues a defensive overhaul that includes Ibrahima Konaté and Denzel Dumfries.