Cesc Fabregas on Leading Como from Serie B to the Champions League
Cesc Fabregas confessed he had no idea Como even had a football team before taking charge of the club. The former midfielder, known for his time at Arsenal and Chelsea, followed his instincts when accepting the role, which has seen him guide Como from Italy's Serie B to their first-ever Champions League qualification.
Fabregas spoke about this surprising journey during the Festival dello Sport in Trento, revealing that although he had connections to the region, the club wasn’t on his radar initially. "The Como project started in quite a strange way," he said. "I had a few proposals, but I just felt this was the right decision. Sometimes you've got to follow your gut." He also admitted, "Funnily enough, I’d been to Como a few times on vacation, but I didn’t even know there was a football team here."
Learning from Antonio Conte
Fabregas began managing Como officially in 2023, though his coaching ideas took shape much earlier. Throughout his decorated playing career, winning titles such as the Premier League, Europa League, La Liga, Copa del Rey, FIFA Club World Cup, two European Championships, and the 2010 World Cup, he played under several notable managers. Yet it was Italian coach Antonio Conte who deeply influenced his tactical approach.
"The first time I saw football changing was when I met Conte at Chelsea. I was already 29, had won a lot, but Wenger and Del Bosque didn’t focus much on tactics like Conte did. It was surprising at first because nobody told me where to pass the ball before," Fabregas explained.
Maintaining Identity at Como
Fabregas emphasizes sticking to a clear team identity as a core part of his management style. His philosophy is paying off: Como currently sits eighth in Serie A, with 10 points from five games, just three points behind leaders Roma.
"Before every game, I ask myself: how do I want to lose? I want to lose with my ideas. Losing after changing your identity hurts twice as much. Sometimes the opponent is better, but you learn lessons while playing your own way," he said.
Continuous Learning from Peers
Though Fabregas’ rise has been swift, he remains grounded. He’s faced some heated moments on the sidelines, including clashes with coaches like Massimiliano Allegri. Fabregas sees these experiences as part of growing emotionally and tactically.
"There have been tense exchanges; I’m young and still emotional. I hope experienced coaches like Gian Piero Gasperini will help me when I’m wrong. I respect those who know more than me and like to listen," he concluded.
- Current Serie A standing: Como in 8th place
- Points from first five matches: 10
- Gap to league leaders Roma: 3 points
- Fabregas' managerial start: 2023
