Como have completed the signing of midfielder Mattia Liberali from Serie B side Catanzaro, the club confirmed on Saturday. The move sees the 21-year-old return to a club within the Italian top flight, having previously featured for AC Milan. Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed.
Liberali’s arrival is seen as a tactical boost for Como manager Cesc Fabregas, providing an alternative to Nico Paz in the attacking midfield role, and potentially the ability for both players to feature together. Fabregas reportedly personally requested Liberali, intervening when AC Milan considered recalling him from his loan spell at Catanzaro. The acquisition also aids Como in fulfilling Serie A squad requirements regarding the number of Italian players registered for UEFA competitions.
Liberali enjoyed a successful season with Catanzaro, contributing four goals and four assists in Serie B. He primarily operated as a number ten, but possesses the versatility to play in multiple attacking positions. Fabregas envisions utilizing Liberali as a wide playmaker, cutting inside from the right flank, a role that aligns with the manager’s preference for technically gifted and inventive wide players. The player also has experience playing as a supporting forward in a 3-4-2-1 formation.
Fabregas highlighted Liberali’s creative ability, technical skills, and composure in possession, stating that he believes the player’s qualities are “perfect for our system.” He added that the club will focus on continuing Liberali’s development. Como’s strategy of nurturing young talent is exemplified by the recent buy-back clause agreed with Real Madrid for Nico Paz, who has seen his value increase significantly during his time at the club. Liberali will hope to follow a similar trajectory, developing his game in a relatively pressure-free environment and contributing to Como’s ambitions in Serie A and potentially European competition.
