Cesc Fabregas is poised to face AC Milan this evening with hopes of securing valuable points for Como, as the team navigates their first season back in Serie A. The match is set to kick off at the iconic San Siro at 17:00 GMT, where Como will be striving to add another significant win to their recent successes, including victories against notable teams such as Roma, Fiorentina, and Napoli.
Fabregas, who has guided Como through their return to the Italian top flight, has made some tactical adjustments for this pivotal match. Como appears to have shifted to a 4-2-3-1 formation to bolster their offensive capabilities. With Maxi Perrone resting on the bench, Fabregas hopes to utilize the full potential of his attacking players, including Patrick Cutrone, who has previously played for Milan.
“I think we lacked a little depth in the last game, so we are seeking the best way for Como to attack their opponents,” Fabregas told DAZN. He is upbeat about his strategies, recognizing the strength of Milan as they frequently score late goals. “Milan are a team who scores often, so whoever plays must be ready to understand and adapt to the dynamics of the match,” he added.
Como has seen remarkable progress under Fabregas's leadership, and the coach credits this success to the squad’s availability and training clearance. “For the first time, everyone is available. We have 26 players training together,” he expressed. The team is well-prepared, with all players, including Sergi Roberto, available for selection, though he noted not everyone may be ready to play the full 90 minutes.
While Fabregas's current focus is firmly on Como, his history with Milan adds another layer of intrigue to the matchup. He once nearly joined the Rossoneri back in 2016, when he was at the height of his physical prowess and considering options after his tenure at Chelsea. “If I had to play in Serie A, my first choice would be Milan,” Fabregas had previously stated, showing his long-standing admiration for the club.
His past encounters with Milan have left lasting impressions. During his time at Arsenal, he made headlines with a remarkable goal from 30 meters out during the Champions League round of 16, securing his team’s progression by eliminating the Rossoneri.
Despite this connection, the match has more immediate stakes for Fabregas and Como—currently positioned at 13th place with 29 points, they aim to move away from the relegation zone. With Milan holding ninth place on 44 points, the game is pivotal for both teams' aspirations.
AC Milan, led by coach Sergio Conceiçao, is also under pressure as rumors swirl about his future. The Rossoneri are assessing their options and have Fabregas on their radar as a potential candidate for the coaching position, should Conceiçao be dismissed.
On the field, Milan is welcoming back key players, including Rafael Leao, who will rejoin the starting lineup after being benched last match. His inclusion is expected to add firepower as they look to capitalize on Como’s defensive setup.
Historical ties between Fabregas and Milan only add to the intrigue. Notably, Fabregas enjoyed success against Milan during his tenure at Barcelona, where he participated in multiple significant matches. His familiarity with the San Siro and the stakes surrounding this fixture add pressure as he aims to establish himself as a notable coach.
Fabregas’s ambitions at Como are clear; he signed a long-term contract because he believes in the potential of the club’s project. “I feel I am at the core of this project,” he stated, expressing gratitude to the Como fans for their unwavering support. Looking forward, he intends to demonstrate what he can build within this framework. “My aim is to keep moving forward,” he remarked, indicating his dedication to the team’s long-term success.
It is anticipated this match will also serve as showcase to reinforce Fabregas's coaching credentials amid growing attention. With both teams desperate for points, anticipation is building for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in Serie A as Como takes on the giants of Milan tonight.