Fabregas urges Como focus after international break as Serie A resumes
Cesc Fabregas has instructed his Como players to immediately refocus on their Serie A campaign following the international break, with a trip to face Udinese on Saturday. The head coach expressed satisfaction with his squad's performances for their national teams but emphasized the need to quickly shift attention back to the club's objectives. Como, currently the form team in the Italian top flight, visit the Bluenergy Stadium for a 12:30 GMT kick-off, broadcast exclusively on Dazn.
Fabregas, speaking ahead of the match, acknowledged the positive experiences of his international players but was clear about the task at hand. "I am very satisfied with what they have done, I am happy that everyone got minutes and I like that they were able to show something different with other coaches," he said. "But now we put those discussions aside and go back to thinking about us." The message underscores the importance of the match as Como seeks to continue its impressive run in its first season back in Serie A after a long absence.
The challenge awaiting them is acknowledged by Udinese's own manager, Kosta Runjaic, who described the visitors as the league's most in-form side. Runjaic called for courage from his team, which sits in a precarious position near the relegation zone. "They are not a surprise, because last year they already showed a clear playing philosophy," Runjaic said of Como. "They want to play football, but they also defend well. They strengthened this season, continued on this path, and now the results are showing." His analysis points to a well-constructed project under Fabregas that has translated effectively to the top division.
Como's starting lineup for the fixture reflects a blend of experience and youth, with goalkeeper Butez protected by a defense including Diego Carlos. The midfield is anchored by Perrone and Da Cunha, with creative duties falling to Paz, Caqueret, and Diao, supporting striker Douvikas. Udinese will respond with a 3-5-1-1 formation, featuring Nicolo Zaniolo in a supporting role behind David Atta, with Okoye in goal. The official teams were confirmed shortly before the match, with referee Marco Maresca overseeing proceedings assisted by VAR Massimiliano Mazzoleni.
The context of the match is critical for both clubs, albeit at opposite ends of the table narrative. Como's remarkable season sees them challenging for a European qualification spot, a stunning achievement for a promoted side. Their success has been built on a coherent identity instilled by Fabregas, a philosophy noted by their upcoming opponent. For Udinese, the match represents a vital battle in their fight to avoid the drop, adding significant pressure to the home side. The clash therefore pits tactical cohesion against urgent necessity, with three points carrying immense value for contrasting reasons.
A victory for Como would further solidify their status as the season's standout story and enhance their continental ambitions. For Udinese, securing a result against such high-flying opposition would provide a major boost to survival hopes. The match officialdom and broadcasting details are set, with the stage now clear for the two sides to translate their managers' pre-match directives into action on the pitch.
