Como's Fabregas Provides Injury Update Ahead of Genoa Clash
Como manager Cesc Fabregas has confirmed striker Mantas Douvikas is fit and available for selection ahead of Sunday's Serie A fixture against Genoa. The update came during Fabregas's pre-match press conference on Wednesday, where he addressed the condition of several players following the team's Coppa Italia elimination to Inter. The match at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris is scheduled for 15:00 local time.
Fabregas stated that Douvikas, the club's primary forward, "is well." The Greek international has been a key figure for the newly promoted side this season. The manager also provided positive news on young midfielder Ibrahima Diao, who had been managing fatigue, and defender Jacobo Ramon, who is reportedly improving in condition. Fabregas noted that Diao trained very well on Wednesday.
However, the squad is not at full strength. Defender Norbert Gyomber, referred to by his nickname Vojvoda, sustained a minor injury in the final moments of the recent league match against Sassuolo. Furthermore, experienced midfielder Sergi Roberto is dealing with a calf issue picked up against Inter in league play. Fabregas expressed hope that both players could return for the subsequent match against Napoli.
When questioned about the form and mentality of forward Alvaro Morata, who has faced recent criticism, Fabregas defended his squad rotation policy. "I am a manager who looks game by game," he said, according to reports. "All teams in the world have difficult moments where criticism is greater, for the players it is the same: for Alvaro it is the same thing, whoever is most prepared to play, plays." He emphasized that the current phase of the season is not for experimentation, but for fielding players who are ready and motivated.
The context of these updates is crucial as Como navigates its first season back in the top flight. Sitting in a comfortable mid-table position, the club's focus is on consolidating its status. Managing the fitness of a relatively small squad, particularly key attackers like Douvikas, is paramount to achieving that objective. The availability of Douvikas provides a significant boost as Como seeks to secure points against a Genoa side also battling to avoid the relegation zone.
Fabregas also touched on the tactical challenges of the campaign, noting the team has consistently played with a back three and has had to adapt frequently due to absences or injuries. The imminent return of several players will provide welcome depth for the final stretch of the season. The match against Genoa represents an opportunity for Como to bounce back from the disappointment of the cup exit and continue building momentum in the league.
