Fabregas Focuses on Champions League Push as Como Seek to Halt Slide
Cesc Fabregas has urged his Como side to reverse a recent slump as they prepare for a crucial Serie A run-in, aiming to close the gap on the Champions League places. Speaking ahead of Sunday's match against Genoa, the manager acknowledged his team's difficult moment, having lost three consecutive games, including a Coppa Italia semi-final defeat to Inter Milan. Como's last victory was on March 22, leaving them needing a strong finish to pressure Juventus above them.
Fabregas expressed respect for the upcoming opponents, managed by Daniele De Rossi. He described Genoa as a "great team, top ten" that has improved significantly, praising their attacking options and the work of De Rossi, whom he admires greatly. "I see Genoa and I say 'there is work being done here'," Fabregas said. "Daniele will have a great career, not necessarily in Italy." He expects a tough encounter in a fiery atmosphere reminiscent of the Premier League.
Reflecting on the midweek cup exit, the Spanish coach struck a positive note despite the disappointment. He stated that Tuesday night, following the 2-0 loss to Inter, was "the night I slept best after a defeat," serene in the knowledge that his team's performance had been seen globally. Fabregas insisted his substitutions late in that match were made with the intention of winning in normal time, not preparing for extra time, and highlighted that Como finished the game with seven Under-23 players on the pitch.
The manager provided a brief update on squad fitness, confirming that forward Anastasios Douvikas is fine, while defenders Valentin Mihaila (Vojvoda) and Sergi Roberto are nursing minor injuries but could return for the following match against Napoli. Midfielder Assan Ceesay (Diao), who had been fatigued, has trained well. Fabregas also addressed the difficult season experienced by former Juventus striker Alvaro Morata, stating that all players go through tough periods and selection is based on readiness and motivation.
With five league games remaining, Fabregas admitted that some of his younger players are feeling the tension of the high-stakes finale more than others, a natural consequence for many in their first professional campaigns. He emphasized his dual role as both educator and tactician in modern management. Como's challenge is to rediscover the form that saw them in fourth place just weeks ago, with the goal of finishing as high as possible and securing European football for next season.
