For Como manager Cesc Fabregas, the club’s rapid ascent represents an entirely different reality from his playing days. Reflecting on the journey from Serie B to European competition, the former Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea midfielder noted the stark contrast in the club’s environment.
“Compared to when I finished my career here, it is completely different,” Fabregas said. “It is not even night and day. It is another world.” He added that hosting Manchester United marks a historic day once again for the institution, the local city, and the dedicated fanbase.
Following his retirement from professional play, Fabregas transitioned into coaching to gain experience, eventually presenting his vision and development plan to the club. Emphasizing a tight-knit culture, he described the organization as a family where supporters continue to celebrate even after losses. He stressed the importance of maintaining humility and remembering the club’s origins to preserve what he considers a uniquely beautiful story.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the fixture, the club’s rapid growth has introduced distinct operational challenges. In the short term, observers have raised questions regarding compliance with UEFA’s financial regulations, particularly as European football’s governing body maintains that it has no intention of amending these rules to accommodate Como’s unexpected rise.
Addressing these financial inquiries, Surwaso told Morgan that while external scrutiny has intensified, the club maintains orderly books and remains confident in its financial standing. Another practical concern centers on the venue itself. Three quarters of the 12,300-capacity Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia remain uncovered, presenting potential complications should forecasted heavy rain arrive at kick-off.
Beyond immediate matchday logistics, leadership recognizes that growing all facets of the organization is essential to maximizing its long-term potential. Within the sporting department, Fabregas faces the task of balancing the celebration of the team’s spectacular trajectory with the immediate demand for focus from his players.
“We were at minus 10 when we started, but we don’t want to spend time thinking about what has passed,” Fabregas said. “If you want to do that, retire and go write a book about what Como did. We must look at what is in front of us.”
