Lionel Messi has praised Nico Paz and Rio Ngumoha as two of football’s brightest prospects, highlighting Real Madrid and Liverpool’s smart recruitment.
Both players were featured in Messi’s latest Adidas “Messi+10: Season 2” campaign, showcasing the next generation of global football superstars.
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For Real Madrid, 21-year-old Paz has impressed at Como, where he has recorded nine goals and twelve assists since joining in 2024.
The Argentina international previously made eight senior appearances for Madrid before being sold, but a €9 million buy-back clause ensures his likely return.
Reports from AS claim Madrid have already promised Paz a Santiago Bernabeu comeback in 2026, seeing him as part of their long-term project.
Liverpool’s Young Star Rio Ngumoha Also Makes Messi’s List
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s Rio Ngumoha, just 17 years old, continues to turn heads after breaking into the first team and signing his first professional deal.
Ngumoha became Liverpool’s youngest-ever goalscorer and the youngest to feature in European competition — achievements now recognised by Messi himself.
His inclusion underlines Liverpool’s commitment to youth development, with Real Madrid reportedly showing long-term interest in the talented English winger.
Messi also praised Chelsea duo Kendry Paez and Andrey Santos, both emerging stars in Enzo Maresca’s evolving first-team squad at Stamford Bridge, reports Team Talk.
By endorsing these youngsters, Messi has once again proven his eye for talent — and vindicated Liverpool and Madrid’s trust in youth.
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