Como manager Cesc Fabregas has confirmed that midfielder Nico Paz is available for selection ahead of Saturday's Serie A match against Napoli, despite suffering a head injury last weekend. Fabregas addressed the media in his pre-match press conference on Thursday, offering updates on several players as his side prepares for the visit of the southern giants. The news will come as a relief to fans and fantasy football managers alike, as the young Argentine has become a key creative outlet for the newly-promoted club.
Paz was forced off just before half-time in Como's 1-1 draw with Genoa last Sunday after a clash of heads. His immediate availability is a significant boost for a team that has relied heavily on his technical quality in its first season back in the top flight. The 20-year-old, on loan from Real Madrid, has scored four goals and provided three assists in 28 league appearances this campaign, establishing himself as one of the breakout talents in the division.
Fabregas also provided clarity on the fitness of other squad members. According to the Spanish coach, defender Valentin Mihaila, commonly known as Vojvoda, has returned to training and is in contention. However, experienced midfielder Sergi Roberto will be managed carefully. "We are all available, Sergi Roberto cannot play the entire match, Vojvoda has returned to training," Fabregas stated. "Aside from [Alfred] Addai, we are all at our disposal." This suggests Roberto may be used from the bench as he continues his return from a recent muscular issue.
The manager also offered insight into the development of young Swedish midfielder Williot Swedberg, known by his nickname Lahdo. Fabregas revealed he had considered introducing the 20-year-old against Genoa but opted for another substitute due to tactical considerations and the player's own minor fitness concern. "He came back from the Sweden U19s with some pain," Fabregas explained. "But the scouting department believes in him a lot, they have analyzed him. He is very young, but the level here is very high... he must continue to work, grow, understand so many dynamics." This indicates Swedberg remains a project for the future, with the club keen on his long-term development.
Como's match against Napoli represents a stern test for Fabregas's side, which currently sits comfortably in mid-table. Securing a positive result against Walter Mazzarri's team would further cement an impressive debut season in Serie A. The availability of Paz, in particular, is crucial for Como's hopes of posing an attacking threat against a Napoli side still fighting for European qualification. The fixture is scheduled for 18:00 CEST on Saturday at the Stadio Sinigaglia in Como.
