Como manager Cesc Fabregas has confirmed his squad's fitness status ahead of Saturday's Serie A match against Napoli at the Stadio Sinigaglia, with midfielder Nico Paz cleared to play. Speaking in a pre-match press conference, Fabregas indicated that Paz, who was substituted at halftime last weekend against Genoa after a head injury, is available for selection. The update will come as a relief to the club, as the 20-year-old Argentine has become an important creative presence since his arrival.
The manager also provided clarity on the condition of full-back Valentin Mihaila, known as Vojvoda, stating he has returned to training and is in contention. However, veteran midfielder Sergi Roberto will not be able to complete a full match, according to Fabregas's assessment. The only confirmed absentee is midfielder Emmanuel Addai, leaving the coach with a largely fit squad to choose from for the pivotal league encounter.
Fabregas offered further insight into his young squad, specifically mentioning teenage winger Samuel Lahdo. He revealed that Lahdo, who recently returned from international duty with Sweden's Under-19 team with some discomfort, was nearly introduced in the match against Genoa. The manager explained the decision was influenced by an injury to another player and the cautionary status of Matheus Da Cunha at the time. Fabregas expressed faith in Lahdo's potential, acknowledging the club's scouting department believes strongly in his talent, but stressed the need for the youngster to continue developing to meet the high level of Serie A, where he competes for minutes with established players like Da Cunha, Kristijan Baturina, and Maxence Caqueret.
The context of the match adds significance to these fitness updates. Como, newly promoted this season, faces a Napoli side traditionally among the league's elite, making the availability of key players like Nico Paz crucial. Paz, a product of Real Madrid's academy, joined Como last summer and has been integral to their midfield dynamics with his technical quality and vision. His continued presence offers Como a better chance to control possession and create opportunities against a strong opponent.
Securing a positive result against Napoli would be a substantial achievement for Fabregas's side as they look to consolidate their place in the top flight. The manager's update suggests he will have most of his preferred options at his disposal, allowing for tactical flexibility. The match represents another test of Como's ambitious project under their former-player-turned-manager, with the club aiming to prove its competitiveness among Italy's best.
