Como’s head coach Cesc Fabregas is hoping to reinvigorate his side's form as they face the tough task against Roma at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. Fabregas, now searching for solutions to turn Como's fortunes around, has shed light on the character issues hampering his team's success. With no victories since September 29, the club has managed only four draws over their last nine games, leaving them near the drop zone.<\/p>
According to Fabregas, the key issues for Como go beyond tactical decisions. "It’s more about character than tactics," the former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder told Sky Sport Italia. He expressed optimism about the return of injured players, which he believes could boost morale and efficacy on the pitch.
Como's upcoming match, scheduled for 17:00 GMT, presents another opportunity to reclaim their confidence after two consecutive draws against Monza and Venezia. Despite the promising outcome of those games, the statistics reveal stark challenges: the team has conceded too many goals relative to the number of chances they allow opponents. “We need more hunger to keep a clean sheet,” Fabregas emphasized, reflecting on the mental hurdles his players face.
Changes to the starting eleven have been mandated by the injury crisis affecting Como, with Federico Barba stepping up as makeshift left-back due to injuries sustained by Alberto Moreno and Marco Sala. Fabregas acknowledged the toll these injuries have taken on the team’s spirit: "The heart of the team was torn out with injuries. Now we must gradually try to rediscover... playing like we did in the early weeks.” The return of Luca Mazzitelli and Sergi Roberto, albeit on the bench for the upcoming match, is seen as a sign of improvement.
At this junction, all eyes will also remain on new possibilities for the club, with rumors swirling around Dele Alli potentially training with Como. The former Tottenham midfielder attended Como’s recent home victory over Roma, where he mingled among celebrities like Keira Knightley and Michael Fassbender, who were also present at the match.
Speaking on Alli's situation, Fabregas confirmed, "There’s a chance he could train with us after Christmas, but only to get back to shape". This potential opportunity is particularly significant for Alli, who has been sidelined with injuries since February 2023 and remains eager to find his footing in professional football again.
Alli's past has been marked by challenges, including debilitating injuries during his spell with Everton, and he has been without competitive match action since the previous year. Over the summer, conversations were had about the prospect of renewing his contract with Everton, but his poor fitness created significant hurdles for both parties.
Fabregas has previously hinted at the gap left by the absence of key players, especially with how their performance has been affected overall. He noted, "If points were granted for possession, we’d be in the top four!" highlighting the stark inconsistency between their attacking capabilities and defensive frailty.
Dele Alli's perspective and rehabilitation process since his injury have underscored his aspirations, and he remains focused on returning to his best form. Having experienced both the highs of youth awards and the lows of personal struggles, he remarked previously: "People might say I haven’t played in a year, but I don’t care—I know my level." His determination to make the 2026 World Cup his driving goal showcases his resilience.
The match against Roma was not just significant due to its competitive stakes, as it yielded Como's first victory against the side since 1995—creating hopes for what is to come. They managed a thrilling finish with goals scored by Alessandro Gabrielloni and Nico Paz late on, securing the precious win with strikes at the 93rd and 97th minute respectively. Fabregas was left delighted by their effort, stating, "The important thing is the team, Gabrielloni's goal... Sometimes it's not tactics but of resilience and desire.”
Looking forward, Enquanto Como works to solidify their strategy, the involvement of players like Alli may offer the rejuvenation they desperately need. With the holiday season approaching, the club hopes to capitalize on their recent victory against Roma as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
