Roberto Martinez Hails Nico Paz: ‘It’s Like Watching Maradona’ After Como’s Stunning Win Over Manchester United

FolioPitch.com – 24 October 2026 | When Roberto Martinez hails Nico Paz as ‘It’s like watching Maradona,’ the football world takes notice. The UEFA Technical Observer and former Belgium coach made the bold comparison after the 22-year-old Argentine delivered a masterclass in Como‘s 4-1 Champions League demolition of Manchester United at the Sinigaglia on Wednesday night. Paz was named Player of the Match after scoring twice and providing an assist, a performance that left Martinez searching for the highest possible praise. ‘He executed two goals and an assist in the first three goals. That’s star material,’ Martinez said in his analysis on UEFA’s official website. ‘It was like watching Maradona, watching that type of player that gets the team on his shoulders.’

The comparison to Diego Maradona is not made lightly, but Paz’s display had all the hallmarks of the legendary Argentine: close control, balance, clinical finishing, and an uncanny ability to carry his team on his shoulders. Roberto Martinez hails Nico Paz It s like watching Maradona as a moment that encapsulates the young playmaker’s rapid rise from promising talent to genuine star.

A Night to Remember at the Sinigaglia

Paz opened the scoring inside two minutes, setting the tone for a memorable evening. He then turned provider early in the second half, teeing up Tasos Douvikas for Como’s second goal—his third assist of the league phase. His second goal was a solo effort born from Cesc Fabregas‘ high press: Paz robbed Carlos Baleba and ran 25 metres before finishing with composure. ‘I love Nico’s clinical touch. He’s a wonderful footballer with great balance and likes to have the ball in close control,’ added Martinez, who led Portugal to Nations League glory in 2025. ‘You could see the space that he had. The execution was perfect.’

The victory over Manchester United was a statement result for Como, a club that has been steadily building under Fabregas. But it was Paz who stole the headlines, and Roberto Martinez hails Nico Paz It s like watching Maradona as a defining moment in the post-match discourse.

Paz’s Rising Star

The performance caps a superb few weeks for Paz, who recently scored in three successive friendlies for Argentina. His form has caught the eye of national team selectors and European giants alike. ‘It’s one of the most special nights in my life, in my career,’ Paz said after the match. ‘Not only for me but also for the club and the fans.’

Despite his heroics, Paz was left out of the Como starting XI for Saturday’s home game against Sassuolo—a reminder of the squad rotation required in a congested season. Yet his impact off the bench and in Europe remains undeniable. When Roberto Martinez hails Nico Paz It s like watching Maradona, it reinforces the belief that Paz is destined for the very top.

Tactical Analysis: The Fabregas Effect

Under Fabregas, Como have adopted an aggressive pressing style that suits Paz’s attributes perfectly. The second goal exemplified this: Paz’s anticipation to intercept Baleba’s pass and his driving run showcased both intelligence and athleticism. Martinez, observing for UEFA, noted the execution was flawless. The high press not only created chances but also allowed Paz to influence the game in the final third, where he is most dangerous.

Manchester United struggled to cope with Como’s intensity and Paz’s movement between the lines. The Premier League giants had no answer to the Argentine’s dribbling and link-up play, which continually opened spaces for teammates. It was a tactical triumph for Fabregas and a personal triumph for Paz.

The Maradona Comparison: Fair or Premature?

Comparisons to Maradona are inevitably fraught with hyperbole, but Martinez’s comments reflect Paz’s unique talent. Like Maradona, Paz is left-footed, diminutive, and possesses an extraordinary ability to navigate tight spaces. His balance and close control allow him to retain possession under pressure, while his vision and finishing make him a constant threat.

However, Paz remains grounded. ‘It’s one of the most special nights in my life,’ he said, deflecting praise to the collective. That humility, combined with his undeniable skill, suggests he has the mentality to handle the expectations that come with such lofty comparisons.

Conclusion

Roberto Martinez hails Nico Paz It s like watching Maradona as a testament to the 22-year-old’s extraordinary potential. In a single night, Paz announced himself to the Champions League audience with a performance that will be remembered for years. For Como, it was a historic victory; for Paz, it was a coming-of-age moment. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the Argentine to see if he can sustain this level and justify the Maradona comparisons. If he does, the football world may be witnessing the emergence of a true superstar.