Como head coach Cesc Fabregas held a press conference ahead of Monday’s match against Lecce, providing updates on team news and reflecting on recent performances. The former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder, now in his first full season as a manager, discussed various aspects of his team’s preparation and individual player performances.
Fabregas began by addressing the team’s availability for the upcoming match. “All the players are doing well, and Alberto Moreno and Sala will also be available. The only unavailable player is Maxi Perrone, while we’ll decide on Gabrielloni tomorrow,” he stated. He also praised the team’s defensive improvements, noting, “We’re doing well in defense, covering all areas of the field and being more aggressive.”
Regarding the tactical approach against Lecce, Fabregas said, “I haven’t decided on the formation yet, but I think we can continue with the three-man defense, although attitude is more important than the system.” He acknowledged Lecce’s strengths under their new coach, Giampaolo, highlighting their use of the wings, physicality, experience, and speed.
Fabregas then discussed the performance of Nico Paz at San Siro against Inter Milan. “It was a difficult game at San Siro. Nico sacrificed a lot, especially in the defensive phase,” he explained. “He knows that to make a difference, he still needs to improve and be more available. I know it’s not easy to play in his position where opponents don’t give you space, and you always have to be ready and attentive to make the right play.”
The Como coach also praised Fadera’s performance against Inter, describing him as “a golden boy” who is doing very well but needs to be “a bit cleaner in the final pass.” Fabregas added, “At San Siro, he managed Dumfries well and can play the entire flank. I always ask a lot of him, and he’s indispensable for us because of his strength and how he gives depth to the team.”
When asked about his attacking options for the Lecce game, Fabregas revealed, “At the moment, we’re not ready to play with two strikers. We lacked a bit of incisiveness at San Siro, and we need to improve in this aspect. For Monday, I haven’t decided yet between Belotti and Cutrone.”
Reflecting on Como’s remarkable 2024, which saw them return to Serie A after many years, Fabregas said, “It has been an unforgettable year for me, and we’ve made Como history by returning to Serie A after so many years, and we don’t want to stop. We’re growing quickly, we’ve won against Atalanta in Bergamo, defeated Roma at home, and brought many fans to the stadium. It’s exciting, and we want to grow and improve.”
Finally, Fabregas confirmed that former Tottenham midfielder Dele Alli has begun training with Como. “He’s training with us, the club requested it,” Fabregas explained. “Next week he’ll do something with us, but for now, he’s just here to train and find his form. I know him, and he’s a strong, quality player who has had a difficult period, and if I can help him, I’m happy to do so.”
