Como manager Cesc Fabregas has outlined the final steps his team must take to secure a historic Champions League qualification, revealing the squad is just two points away from their target. In a detailed press conference ahead of Sunday's away fixture against a relegated but dangerous Verona side, the former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder emphasized the need for an extra collective effort to overtake rivals Roma, Juventus, and Milan in the Serie A standings.
"Numerically, we are missing two points. We are very close, but we need to make that extra bit," Fabregas stated. He elaborated on his squad-building philosophy, noting that while the January transfer window offered an opportunity, the club chose not to make additions. "I prefer to start with less, two players per position, and then evaluate in January. For me, union and competitiveness are important." This approach highlights a focus on internal development and cohesion over mid-season reinforcements.
The manager, who recently celebrated his 39th birthday, spoke warmly of the environment at Como, describing it as a place where he feels at home. He detailed how the team's positive atmosphere is actively cultivated, mentioning that five players recently took a short trip together for mental rest, while others like Sergi Roberto and Goldaniga also traveled as a pair. "If they are well off the field, they can do better on it," Fabregas explained, underscoring his belief that mental freshness is as crucial as physical preparation.
With the FIFA World Cup on the horizon, Fabregas acknowledged it has been a topic in the dressing room, though he believes his players are now fully focused on the season's climax. He cited specific examples of how international ambitions have affected his squad: goalkeeper Jean Butez was disappointed after a recent call-up didn't materialize, defender Van der Brempt was in preliminary squads, and midfielder Baturina received a call-up. "The better they do here, the more opportunities they will have for the national team. It depends on them, not just on us," the coach remarked.
Looking ahead to the match at the Stadio Bentegodi, Fabregas dismissed any notion that Verona, already relegated, would be an easy opponent. He pointed to their recent performance against Juventus, where they sat deep, defended resolutely, and threatened on the counter-attack. "Nobody wants to lose a match just to lose it. They are sad and disappointed because they have been relegated, but nobody gives us anything," he cautioned. "We must be prepared for a match similar to last week's. Today, scoring against a low block is the most difficult thing. We must have hunger, for performance and for goals. We must go in positively, but if we go onto the pitch thinking it's an easy match..."
Fabregas also revealed a personal reflection on the Champions League, a competition he came agonizingly close to winning as a 19-year-old with Arsenal in 2006. He recalled the final loss to Barcelona in Paris, a defeat he initially believed would be avenged in future finals. "That defeat taught me a lot. I left and said, 'Wow, what satisfaction to play a Champions League final. I will surely win it because I am young.' Years pass and I retire, and it's the only thing I haven't won. There are regrets; it shows you that in football—as in life—you have to fight. If you wait too long, it never arrives."
He drew a parallel to the present, noting that while Arsenal could win a double this season, they could also end up with nothing. "Would that be a failure? For one match, one goal? I don't see it that way. For me, they are having a fantastic season, Arteta too. A madonna of a season," he said, using an Italian expression of high praise. This perspective offers insight into the fine margins that define success at the highest level.
On the injury front, Fabregas provided an update on Argentine midfielder Perrone, who sustained a broken nose in the recent draw against Napoli. The player has been training with a protective mask and is available for selection against Verona. However, surgery will be required after the season concludes. This availability is a boost for Como's midfield options during their critical final push.
The upcoming fixture against Verona, kicking off at 12:30 on Sunday, presents a unique challenge in terms of preparation. Fabregas expressed his personal dislike for the early kickoff time, explaining how it disrupts the team's usual pre-match routine of morning activation, stretching, and a two-on-two session before a meal and rest. Managing the players' physical and mental readiness for this altered schedule will be part of the tactical puzzle.
As the Serie A season reaches its climax, Como's quest for a top-four finish represents a remarkable story. Under Fabregas's guidance, the team has blended youth and experience, fostering a strong collective spirit that has them on the brink of Europe's elite club competition. The final two weeks of the campaign will test whether that unity and hunger can deliver the historic result the club and its supporters crave.
Based on reporting from Tuttosport.com - Calcio.
