One step, two, and then another. As if he were in a tango class, Paz is picking up the pace in learning a global dance that is about to begin and could see him immediately on the main stage.
Stronger than the speculation about his knee, Como’s number 10 is moving forward with the patience needed to quickly become a protagonist in the world’s most captivating tournament.
He, who already moves like a veteran with his back to goal despite being only 21 years old, is slowly making his way toward the most prestigious milonga on the planet - the one for world champions. His rise over the past two years has been remarkable, thanks in part to the tactical guidance of coach Cesc Fabregas, who has also given him a certain freedom of thought, decision-making, and movement.
Return
The backup for Messi now exudes remarkable calm and is preparing for his global debut with composure, where he is expected to start on the bench. The Albiceleste captain, who came off battered from a match with his Inter Miami on May 24th, seems ready to start from the first minute in the opener against Algeria, while the 2004-born player is gradually recovering.
On Sunday, news broke that the Como playmaker had completed his first group training session since joining the World Cup squad. The mood around him is more than positive, and his dance steps are becoming increasingly smooth and confident. Just days before the World Cup kicks off, his full return is now a certainty. And Scaloni can finally smile.
Even at 60%, the Rosario native remains the undisputed starter in the attacking midfield role, but it’s clear that in a tournament longer than usual, a 38-year-old player (who will turn 39 on June 24th) will need to be managed. In this context, Paz is the ideal fillip for Messi, who has already praised him on several occasions and highlighted his abilities.
Leading the way in Serie A
Looking back at the current season for Argentinians in Europe, Como’s number 10 stands out as one of the few to have achieved a major milestone in Europe’s domestic leagues.
Beyond Emiliano Martinez - Europa League winner - and Lautaro Martinez - Italian champion and cup winner - the 2004-born player achieved the best team result by qualifying Como for the Champions League, far exceeding the club’s pre-season goals.
The Argentine was undoubtedly the best player in the last Serie A season, ranking fourth in goal contributions with 12 goals and seven assists. Therefore, it’s possible he could be used both as Messi’s main substitute and as his sidekick, given his mobility and ability to adapt to a fluid style of play. And he could break through just as Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister did in 2022, making a decisive contribution to the Albiceleste’s victory.
The only condition for his definitive breakthrough is a full recovery from the knee discomfort he’s been feeling - a joint that’s crucial for his tango steps on the pitch. All of Argentina is waiting for his dance. Because, after all, without Angel Di Maria, the left-footer who grew up at Real Madrid could also become the captain’s best partner. And, who knows, maybe even earn a return to the Santiago Bernabeu...