Como 1907, once languishing in Italy's amateur Serie D, are now pushing for Champions League qualification under head coach Cesc Fàbregas. The former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder has transformed the club into a possession-dominant, high-pressing side that boasts the meanest defence in Serie A while scoring more than any team except Inter.
Fàbregas joined Como as a player in 2022, retired a year later, and quickly moved into coaching. After guiding the under-19s, he became interim first-team manager in November 2023, then permanent boss following promotion. His philosophy revolves around bringing in 'hungry, humble players' who are open to learning, and he spends up to 16 hours a day at the training ground.
The club's rapid rise has been supported by ambitious owners, the Djarum Group, and minority shareholder Thierry Henry, who recommended development head Osian Roberts. Key signings like Pepe Reina and Raphaël Varane helped manage dressing room dynamics; Varane remains involved as an investor and ambassador.
Fàbregas acknowledges his own growth, laughing at earlier tactical choices that worked in Serie B but would not use now. 'I look back… we were humble enough to be constantly growing,' he said. With sellout crowds of 12,000 and a unique lakeside stadium, Como are proving that innovation and a clear identity can challenge Serie A's established order.
