Como, Italy – Cesc Fabregas, the head coach of Serie A side Como 1907, is attempting to maintain his players grounded despite the club’s surprising push for a Champions League berth. Currently holding a top-four position in the Italian league, Fabregas is actively discouraging discussion of qualifying for Europe’s premier club competition, prioritizing a focus on consistent performance in the remaining matches of the season.
Como’s ascent this season has been remarkable. The club, nicknamed “I Lariani,” currently sits fourth in Serie A with 51 points, a testament to the impact of Fabregas’s leadership since taking the helm. Owned by the Djarum Group of Indonesia, Como is enjoying a period of significant investment and ambition, but Fabregas is keen to maintain a pragmatic approach.
The potential for Champions League qualification is remarkably real, with just ten league games remaining. However, Fabregas believes premature focus on such a lofty goal could be detrimental. “If we get there (Champions League), great, if not, we continue building,” Fabregas stated, as reported by TuttoMercatoWeb. “I will be angry if the players talk about the Champions League right now. Not because of the topic, but because it’s not the time. If that doesn’t happen, what are we, losers?”
This weekend presents a crucial test for Como, as they host AS Roma at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. The two teams are currently separated only by goal difference, making this match a pivotal moment in the race for Champions League spots. The stakes are high, and a win for Como would significantly strengthen their position.
The situation is further complicated by the challenge from Juventus, who are lurking just behind in sixth place with 50 points. A failure for both Como and Roma to secure a victory could open the door for Juventus to leapfrog into the top four with a win against Udinese. The coming weekend promises to be a dramatic one in the Italian Serie A title race.
Como’s story is particularly noteworthy given its recent history. The club, founded in 1907, has experienced periods of both success and hardship, including financial difficulties and bankruptcy in the early 2000s. Como 1907’s current stability and ambition are largely attributed to the investment from the Djarum Group, a conglomerate run by Robert and Michael Hartono. This backing has allowed the club to clear debts and invest in strengthening the squad, a strategy that appears to be paying dividends under Fabregas’s guidance.
The Djarum Group’s commitment to Como is substantial. Reports indicate a willingness to invest $100 million in player acquisitions, demonstrating a serious intent to compete at the highest level. This level of financial backing is comparable to investments seen in Major League Soccer, highlighting the ambition of the club’s ownership.
Fabregas’s appointment as head coach in 2025 marked a significant turning point for Como. Having previously served as part of a coaching duo with Osian Roberts, he successfully guided the club to promotion to Serie A in 2024. His rapid rise through the managerial ranks has attracted attention from other clubs, including reported interest from Inter Milan following the departure of Simone Inzaghi to Saudi Arabia. However, Fabregas chose to remain with Como, demonstrating his commitment to the project.
The club is also notable for its diverse ownership structure, which includes minority shares held by Fabregas himself and former footballer Thierry Henry. This unique arrangement reflects a forward-thinking approach to club management and a desire to leverage the expertise of individuals with a deep understanding of the game. As reported by The Athletic, Como President Mirwan Suwarso emphasizes the importance of succession planning, recognizing that Fabregas’s success may eventually attract offers from larger clubs.
Suwarso has stated that the club has a plan in place to ensure a smooth transition should Fabregas decide to move on, highlighting a long-term vision for sustained success. This proactive approach to management underscores the Djarum Group’s commitment to building a stable and competitive club.
For now, however, the focus remains firmly on the present. Fabregas’s message to his players is clear: concentrate on each game as it comes, maintain consistency, and avoid getting ahead of themselves. The upcoming match against Roma will be a crucial test of their resolve and a significant step towards achieving their ambitious goals.
Como’s next challenge is their home fixture against AS Roma on March 22nd. Fans can follow live updates and match details on the official Como Football website, comofootball.com. The match is scheduled to kick off at 3:00 PM CET (9:00 AM EST).
