See how Nico Paz develops by 2030 in FM26 – attributes, stats, career path and whether he’s worth building your midfield around.
Some wonderkids explode into stardom, others take the scenic route — and Nico Paz is the latter. Once a Real Madrid academy jewel, he left Spain in search of minutes and development, and by 2030 in Football Manager 2026 he’s transformed into one of Europe’s most refined creators at Olympique Lyonnais.
Starting Profile – 2025 (Como)
At just 20 years old, Nico Paz plays for Como in Serie A after leaving Real Madrid for £5M. He’s already oozing technical quality — crisp dribbling, elite first touch and passing vision that make him a natural Advanced Playmaker or Free Role AMC.
Highlights include:
- Dribbling: 17
- First Touch: 18
- Passing: 16
- Technique: 17
- Vision: 17
Physically, he’s agile and quick over short distances (Agility 15, Acceleration 14), but still lacks strength. Mentally, his Flair (16) and Composure (14) show signs of a future elite creator.
Developed Profile – 2030 (Lyon)
By 25, Nico Paz evolves into a world-class attacking midfielder at Olympique Lyonnais. He’s now technically flawless, physically matured, and mentally sharper — a player capable of dictating tempo and unlocking packed defences.
Key attributes at this stage:
- Dribbling: 18
- First Touch: 18
- Passing: 16
- Technique: 18
- Flair: 16
- Agility: 17
- Acceleration: 15
Career Path and Output to 2030
Paz’s journey is a slow burn. He spends three full seasons at Como, improving each year before earning a move to Lyon in 2028. By 2030, he’s posted strong goal involvement numbers and become one of Ligue 1’s best creative midfielders.
Personality, Traits and Scout Report
Paz matures into a Resolute professional — reliable, composed, and consistent under pressure. Traits like Plays One-Twos, Comes Deep To Get Ball and Tries Killer Balls Often make him a perfect fit for possession-based systems. Scouts rate him as a solid A recommendation, often describing him as an Elite Attacking Midfielder with worldwide reputation.
Best Role and Usage
- Best role: Advanced Playmaker (Support) or Free Role AMC
- Formation fit: 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 with inverted winger support
- Ideal traits: Flair, Composure, Vision, Technique, Passing
- What to avoid: High-tempo transitions — he shines in patient build-up and short combinations.
Pros
- Elite technical attributes across the board
- Consistent performer with a great mentality
- Flair and creativity to unlock any defence
- Two-footed enough for flexibility in buildup
Cons
- Physically average — not strong or tall for duels
- Can fade out of games without attacking runners
- Needs a dynamic striker ahead to maximise impact
Market Value and Reputation
By 2030, Paz’s value sits around £64M–£83M, earning roughly £85K per week at Lyon. He’s described as an Elite attacking midfielder and has earned international caps for Argentina, winning the Pan American Games (2027) and individual awards such as Serie A Best Young Player.
Verdict – Worth The Investment?
Absolutely. If your tactic revolves around ball retention, creativity and rhythm, Nico Paz is a dream signing. He’s not explosive like Endrick, but his elegance and composure make him one of the most satisfying players to build around in FM26. He’ll never be the headline-grabber — but he’ll quietly run your midfield for the next decade.
Read More and Get The Tools
READ MORE: FM26 Wonderkids by Position and Potential Ability
READ MORE: FM26 Best Youth Academies and Wonderkid Factories
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