When Cesc Fàbregas arrived at Como 1907 in 2022, few people thought he could take the club to the Champions League within the shortest time possible. Como were playing in Serie D in 2019 before Fàbregas’ leadership transformed the club from an unknown Serie B side into a genuine force in Italy. Ambitious ownership and smart recruitment also helped the Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea legend achieve this remarkable feat.
Fàbregas’ first journey in Como was anything but unique. He began as a player before gradually transitioning into coaching and football management roles within the club. This experience helped him build a strong connection with both the dressing room and supporters. Players did not just view him as a manager, but as who fully understood the project from the inside.
Reports suggest that Fàbregas was heavily involved in football operations and helped shape the club’s long-term vision. Como’s success was credited their fearless style of football. Fàbregas implemented an attacking philosophy inspired by the managers he played under throughout his career, including Arsène Wenger, Pep Guardiola, and José Mourinho.
Under Fàbregas’ leadership, Como became one of the most entertaining teams in Serie A due to their possession, intelligent movement, and quick transitions. The Spaniard built a balanced squad filled with young talents and experienced professionals. Rising players like Nico Paz became central figures in the team’s attack, while veterans such as Álvaro Morata and Sergi Roberto brought leadership and composure.
A historic qualification to Champions League
Como’s defining moment came on the final day of the 2025-26 Serie A season, when the team took on Cremonese. Cesc Fàbregas’ men knew they needed to beat their opponent and rely on another favorable result elsewhere to book their first ever ticket to the Champions League – and they did it.
The Serie A debutants delivered a dominant 4-1 victory away at Cremonese, with Lucas da Cunha’s brace, Jesús Rodríguez and Tasos Douvikas goals. AC Milan surprisingly lost 2-1 to Cagliari, which condemned the Rossineri to finish fifth and settle for Europa League.
It was a stunning turnaround for Como, who finished fourth in Serie A, ahead of traditional giants like Milan and Juventus FC. Como will also be the 16th different Serie A team to participate in the Champions League or European Cup. Even more shocking, next season’s Champions League will be the first that will not feature Milan or Juventus.
“The last circle of the season,” Fàbregas told his squad after the game. “I told you the day before Parma, we win the two games, we are in the Champions League. I don’t know why I told you, I had a feeling, I always get my responses by feeling.”
“But guys, this is all up to you. It’s all thanks to every one of you. We try to help you, we try to give you certain solutions, but you are the reason that this is so beautiful. I thank you for all my life. All my life, because this would be probably the best group I will ever coach in my future.”
Cesc Fàbregas remains committed to Como despite interests from elite clubs
Fàbregas has since confirmed his intention to remain with Como following their historic achievement in securing a Champions League ticket. His outstanding achievements have seen him linked with several high-profile jobs, most notably at Real Madrid. But Jose Mourinho now appears set to succeed Alvaro Arbeloa who has announced his departure.
However, Fàbregas has since dismissed any speculation regarding his future outside Como, insisting that he remained committed to the club’s vision for next season.
“Future? We had a long meeting at 2pm with the president and the director,” Fàbregas told Sky Sport. “We have consolidated the idea; the vision is already on the next season. I am very happy here; as you know, I am missing a step or two more, and I am learning a lot. We are creating a mentality.”
Como’s emergence could signal a change in Italian football where established giants have long dominated Serie A. In just a few seasons, Fàbregas went from retired midfielder to one of Europe’s most talked-about young coaches. The club trusts his vision, the players believe in his ideas, and supporters have embraced him as the architect of a historic era.
