Como Manager Fabregas Sets Sights on Champions League Amidst Stunning Rise
Como's remarkable journey from Italy's fourth tier to the upper echelons of Serie A has taken a new turn, with manager Cesc Fabregas stating the club's ambition is to qualify for the Champions League. The club, which secured a comfortable mid-table finish last season after a rapid rise from Serie D, currently sits in a European qualification spot, with Fabregas openly discussing a top-four finish as the target.
Ahead of a pivotal Serie A match against league leaders Inter Milan, Fabregas addressed the media, framing the clash as a test of his team's burgeoning credentials. The former Spain international emphasized the need for a fearless approach against the reigning champions. "Against the Nerazzurri, the key is to be clinical," Fabregas stated. "You have to score and play with personality. In the past, we've sometimes lacked that decisive spark in key moments, preventing us from finding the net and the win. I hope the luck turns in our favor tomorrow."
The manager also addressed recent media criticism of the team's style, particularly after a recent goalless draw with Udinese. He dismissed the notion of a negative atmosphere and pointed to the club's tangible progress. "We have to think about what we want to do and how we want to do it," Fabregas said. "Those who joke about a 0-0 draw with Udinese don't live our reality. Last year we finished on 49 points, a huge gap to the top. This year we already have six points more with seven games to go and we're in a Coppa Italia semi-final. We are Como. We continue our path, serene and convinced of our way."
Fabregas confirmed that forward Alvaro Morata, on loan from Atletico Madrid, is fully fit and remains a key leader despite a season where his goal return has been lower than expected. "Alvaro is not the type to shy away from responsibility or give up. His commitment is impeccable, he's a positive leader for his teammates and works hard every day," Fabregas said, while acknowledging the striker had hoped for more goals. The manager also provided a positive update on the fitness of Jesus Rodriguez, while a late decision will be made on the availability of Ramon.
Tactically, Fabregas highlighted the importance of his full-backs in the modern game, describing them as potential solutions or problems depending on their choices in possession. He also hinted at a tactical surprise for the Inter match. "We have never defended with a back three. The set-up changes based on the characteristics of the players on the pitch. You will see what I have decided. We have full confidence in all my players, but it's clear that against Inter you can't just barricade yourself in defense—they will find a way through eventually," he explained, acknowledging the threat of Inter's crossing and the technical quality of players like Federico Dimarco.
Despite the daunting task, Fabregas's ambition for the club is clear. He approaches the high-stakes fixture with a champion's mentality, a mindset he has carried throughout his career. "I approach every game as if it were a Champions League final," he said, referencing his time at Arsenal and Barcelona. "Ambition is independent of physical condition. We were a bit naive in the 4-0 defeat in the reverse fixture. Inter are formidable, we will look for the right solutions, but the result tomorrow will not define the quality of our season. We are on our own track."
