Como manager Cesc Fabregas has highlighted the impact of Nico Paz in the club’s remarkable rise to Champions League qualification, according to an interview with Sky Sport. The interview detailed the emotional scenes following Como’s final match of the season and Fabregas’s address to the team, praising their historic achievement and dedication.
Fabregas reflected on the solitary nature of management, particularly during the tense final day of the season where Como needed results to go their way. He described the pressure of making critical decisions and the need for composure, noting that despite the difficulty, it was a defining moment in his coaching career. The manager also expressed his surprise at the passionate support Como receives, having initially only known the area as a vacation destination.
Paz’s arrival at Como following a 3-0 defeat to Juventus in their first Serie A match was identified as a turning point. Fabregas stated that the loss served as a wake-up call, prompting the club’s president to invest in both experienced players and promising youngsters, including Paz, Perrone, Kempf, and Fadera. The manager specifically praised Paz’s growth as a player and the strong relationship they have developed, citing their embrace after a 2-0 victory over Juventus as a sincere moment of connection.
Fabregas also addressed a sideline altercation with Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri, taking full responsibility for his actions and emphasizing the importance of accepting mistakes. He further touched on the positive impact of a late goal from Martin Baturina, suggesting his own tactical decisions may have previously limited the player’s opportunities. The manager concluded by reaffirming his happiness at Como, despite previous speculation regarding his future, and shared a personal anecdote about a recent meeting with Pope Francis.
