Cesc Fabregas has detailed the profound impact Antonio Conte had on his career while discussing his current project as head coach of Como, who face Napoli this weekend. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Serie A clash, the former Spain international opened up on his time working under Conte at Chelsea and addressed his club's surprising push for European qualification.
Fabregas, 37, is in his first full season in charge of the newly-promoted side, who currently sit fifth in the table with 61 points, just three behind Juventus. According to the coach, his demanding philosophy has been shaped significantly by his former manager. "I learned a lot from him," Fabregas said of Conte. "He made me suffer tremendously on a physical level, with his demands, running, intensity, always going flat out. After four or five months of adapting to his method, I was flying by December. Physically I felt incredibly strong."
The coach's comments come as his team prepares to host the reigning Italian champions, a side Fabregas praised for overcoming a season of significant injuries under Conte's guidance. The match represents a crucial test for Como's unexpected European credentials. Despite the impressive league position, Fabregas remained cautious about the prospect of Champions League football, a competition he won as a player with Chelsea. "I don't answer about the Champions League," he stated. "When they told me I would have the team, I didn't know if we were ready. The step is perhaps too big. We must think match by match."
Fabregas also provided a squad update, confirming that most players are available for the Napoli fixture, with only midfielder Godfred Addai ruled out. He expressed satisfaction with his team's mentality following a recent comeback victory against Genoa, drawing parallels to his own experience captaining a young Arsenal side. "I saw my Como at 100%," he said. "Mentality, courage... I didn't see them demoralized. In the second half I saw a team that said 'they won't score against us'. Everyone was solid, always making an extra run."
The press conference also touched on broader footballing topics, with Fabregas offering a measured view on refereeing controversies, stating he does not believe officials act in "bad faith." He also revealed his admiration for the recent Champions League clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, which he described as "the best match I have seen in my life" from a spectator's perspective, noting he uses such high-level examples in training.
Looking ahead, Fabregas hinted at a busy summer for the club's sporting director, Fabio Pecini, regardless of the final league position. "The market is still missing, we have to wait," he said. "You don't know where you will finish. If Lazio wins the Coppa Italia and you finish seventh, there is a possibility of staying out. The possibility exists, I am very prudent." For now, the immediate focus remains on securing a positive result against Napoli, a performance that would further solidify Como's remarkable season and validate the progress under their rookie manager.
