Europe's Next Great Coach? How Fabregas Led Como into the Champions League

BBC Sport visits Como to discover the vision and philosophy of the club's coach, Cesc Fabregas, who has overseen the team's remarkable rise to the Champions League.

On the shores of Lake Como in northern Italy, a once-dormant club is writing a new legend. Como 1907, a team with over a century of history but long stuck in the lower divisions, has miraculously secured a Champions League spot under the guidance of Cesc Fabregas. The former Spanish international, renowned for his exceptional vision and passing ability during his playing days, is now translating that intelligence into success from the dugout. Fabregas's coaching career began at Como, where he took over immediately after retiring in 2023. At the time, Como were still struggling in Serie B, but Fabregas brought a clear tactical philosophy and a winning culture. He emphasized possession-based football and quick passing, stressing teamwork and positional rotation, principles that quickly took root in the squad. In his first full season, Como won the Serie B title and earned promotion to Serie A, stunning Italian football. After promotion, many expected Como to simply fight for survival, but Fabregas harbored far greater ambitions. Through shrewd transfer dealings, he brought in experienced players like Sergi Roberto and Alberto Moreno while boldly promoting young talents. The team's tactical system matured, and their confidence and discipline on the pitch were impressive. Midway through the season, Como found themselves near the top of the table, eventually finishing fourth to secure a Champions League berth—the first in the club's history. Fabregas's success is no accident. He has been influenced by great coaches like Guardiola and Mourinho, yet he has developed his own unique style. He excels at communicating with players and unlocking their potential. On the training ground, he personally demonstrates technical moves, explains tactical details, and even joins in practice matches. His passion and focus have infected the entire squad, fostering a harmonious and determined dressing room atmosphere. Como's rise is also backed by the club's ownership. In recent years, Como has attracted investment from Indonesian and American backers, who have provided modern training facilities and a youth academy. Fabregas works closely with the club's management to plan a long-term vision. He is not only concerned with the first team's results but also dedicated to nurturing local young players, laying the foundation for Como's future. The Champions League stage is both a glory and a challenge for Como. Fabregas is well aware that compared to Europe's elite, Como lack squad depth and European experience. However, he believes that by adhering to his football philosophy, the team can compete at the highest level. He is meticulously preparing tactical plans and considering targeted reinforcements in the transfer market. Fabregas's coaching achievements have already drawn widespread attention across European football. Many see him as a future top-tier coach, with some even comparing him to young tacticians like Zinedine Zidane and Mikel Arteta. Yet Fabregas remains humble, stating that he is still learning and focusing on each upcoming match. Como's Champions League journey is about to begin, and Fabregas's story is just turning a new page. Regardless of the outcome, he has already proven that he is not only a great player but also a potential next-generation tactical mastermind in European football. Como's fans have every reason to believe that under Fabregas's leadership, their team will continue to make history.

Europe's Next Great Coach? How Fabregas Led Como into the Champions League

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