Cesc Fabregas Addresses Como's Slump Ahead of Crucial Genoa Clash
Como manager Cesc Fabregas has addressed his team's recent slump ahead of a pivotal Serie A match against Genoa this Sunday. The club has not won since March 22, a run encompassing three consecutive defeats including a Coppa Italia semi-final loss to Inter Milan, and now seeks to close the gap to the Champions League places.
Speaking at a press conference, Fabregas acknowledged the challenge posed by Genoa, managed by Daniele De Rossi. He described the upcoming fixture as "extremely important" and praised the opposition's development into a complete, top-ten caliber side with a formidable attack. Fabregas noted the atmosphere at Genoa's stadium reminds him of the Premier League, calling such matches beautiful for players to experience.
Reflecting on the midweek cup exit to Inter, Fabregas struck a positive tone. He stated it was the night he had slept best after a defeat, serene in the knowledge that his team's performance and the chances they created were visible to all. He emphasized that his young squad, which finished the Inter match with seven Under-23 players on the pitch, gave their all and were ultimately undone by small details and Inter's merit in the final assault.
The manager also provided a squad fitness update ahead of the Genoa match. He confirmed striker Anastasios Douvikas is fine, while defender Norbert Gyomber and midfielder Sergi Roberto are nursing minor muscular issues. Winger Ibrahima Diao, who had been fatigued, trained well, and the overall condition of the group is good following a team dinner that showed clear unity.
Fabregas reserved significant praise for his Genoa counterpart, Daniele De Rossi. He said he admires De Rossi both as a former player and now as a coach, highlighting the clear principles he has instilled at Genoa and previously at Roma. Fabregas confidently predicted that De Rossi is destined for a "great career" in management, not necessarily confined to Italy.
When asked about the poor season experienced by his forward, former Juventus striker Alvaro Morata, Fabregas focused on the present. He explained that all players and teams go through difficult, heavily criticized periods, and his selection will be based purely on who is most prepared and motivated to play each game, not on past reputation. He stressed the importance of constructive criticism and consistency from a manager.
With Como having slipped from fourth place and now facing intense pressure in the race for European qualification, Fabregas was asked if his players are feeling the tension. He admitted that some do and some do not, noting that for many of his young professionals, this is their first time fighting for such significant objectives. He described his role as sometimes being more of an educator than a coach, asserting that a modern manager must be more than just a tactician. Fabregas concluded by urging his team not to let up, aiming to finish the season as high as possible.
