Como’s Historic Night: Nico Paz Wears Captain’s Armband as Ludi Declares ‘Ludi Como keep writing new history Nico Paz was a child when he arrived’

FolioPitch.com – 15 October 2026 | In a historic evening at De Kuip Stadion in Rotterdam, Como director of sport Carlalberto Ludi expressed immense pride as Nico Paz captained the team for the first time from the start in their UEFA Champions League clash against Feyenoord. The match marks Como’s first-ever European away fixture, and Ludi was quick to highlight the significance, stating, ‘Ludi Como keep writing new history Nico Paz was a child when he arrived.’ The Argentine midfielder, who joined the club three years ago as a teenager, has grown into a leader, embodying the club’s remarkable rise.

Over 1,000 Como supporters made the journey to the Netherlands, filling the stands of De Kuip to witness this milestone. Their presence, as Ludi noted, is a testament to the club’s growing stature. ‘It is great to see 1,050 fans here to cheer on their team,’ he told Sky Sport Italia. ‘This is a wonderful experience for them and for us, we want to enjoy it to the full.’ The fans’ enthusiasm mirrors the club’s ambition under the guidance of coach Cesc Fabregas and the ownership, who have steered Como to unprecedented heights.

Paz’s journey from a raw talent to captain is a story of dedication and growth. Ludi recalled a pivotal moment: ‘I always cite the unlucky match against Frosinone that we lost 2-0, where he showed how much he cares about this shirt, how much he cares about taking his team to success. We lost that day, but the attitude and approach to me is significant.’ That match, despite the defeat, revealed Paz’s leadership qualities, which have now been formally recognized with the armband. ‘I feel this is a significant growth, he arrived as a child basically three years ago, and now carries the armband and puts the team on his back,’ Ludi added, reinforcing the sentiment that ‘Ludi Como keep writing new history Nico Paz was a child when he arrived.’

On the pitch, Como’s tactical approach has been fluid and adaptive. With Moise Kean injured, Paz is expected to operate as a False 9, a role that leverages his vision and technical ability. However, Ludi emphasized that the team’s strength lies in its collective movement. ‘Numbers are relative now in tactics, our football is about possession, trying to dominate the play, control the tempo of the match, and not show off weak points to our opponents,’ he explained. This philosophy, inspired by the Dutch school of football and President’s admiration for Johan Cruyff, has shaped Como’s identity. ‘With all that respect for their tradition, we are here to display our own style of football,’ Ludi asserted, embodying the club’s confidence.

Beyond the pitch, the club is also focused on securing the future of key players. Assane Diao, who scored in the Champions League opener against RB Leipzig, is in talks for a contract extension. Ludi remained calm about the negotiations: ‘We are working in the office and there is no emergency to discuss. Assane is happy to be here, we’re happy to have him, we’re not in the final phases of negotiations, because we are in no rush.’ This patient approach reflects Como’s long-term vision, prioritizing stability and growth over hasty decisions.

The match against Feyenoord is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of Como’s journey. From the lower divisions to the Champions League, the club has defied expectations. Ludi’s words, ‘Ludi Como keep writing new history Nico Paz was a child when he arrived,’ resonate deeply, capturing the essence of a club that continues to break barriers. As the team steps onto the De Kuip pitch, they carry the hopes of a community and the legacy of a remarkable ascent.

In conclusion, Como’s story is one of vision, resilience, and the nurturing of talent. Nico Paz’s evolution from a child to captain symbolizes the club’s broader trajectory. With a clear philosophy and unwavering support, Como is not just participating in history—they are writing it, page by page, match by match. As Ludi proudly states, ‘Ludi Como keep writing new history Nico Paz was a child when he arrived,’ and the world is watching.