Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has publicly endorsed the potential return of former academy standout Nico Paz to the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 22-year-old Argentine playmaker has excelled at the Italian club Como under the guidance of manager Cesc Fabregas, according to the recent reports from Yahoo Sports.
Courtois disclosed that he played an unexpected role in facilitating the transfer of the young talent to Italy.
During an interview at the Web Summit in Lisbon, the Belgian goalkeeper noted that Fabregas reached out to him to seek his professional assessment of the player, as documented by TN.
The veteran goalkeeper advised the Como manager to pursue the signing because of the midfielder’s immense focus and talent.
Courtois stated regarding his recommendation: “I told him he had to sign him because he’s a boy with a lot of talent, focused and eager.”
Paz has since made a significant impression in Serie A, with Courtois observing that the youngster is currently shining in his new environment.
Regarding a possible reunion at Real Madrid, the goalkeeper expressed high confidence in the player’s future capabilities.
Courtois remarked: “I’m sure that if he can return to Real Madrid, he’ll be a great player for us.”
Real Madrid retains a buy-back option for the player ahead of the 2027/28 season, though the clause is set to expire after the summer.
The club previously allowed the player to move to Italy to ensure he received consistent playing time, which might be difficult to secure amidst the current competition at the Santiago Bernabeu, according to Madrid Universal.
While the future remains uncertain, the support from a senior figure like Courtois underscores the high regard in which the academy graduate is held by his former teammates.