Cesc Fabregas shared his excitement and pride as his team, Como, achieved a historic qualification for the Champions League. He described the experience as akin to attending a “football university” due to the extensive decision-making and development he’s undergone as a coach.
Como secured their place in the prestigious competition after a remarkable season, capped by a victory over Cremonese and the unexpected collapse of AC Milan. This marks a significant milestone for the club, which was promoted from Serie B just two years prior.
Fabregas’s Pride in Como’s Historic Achievement
Fabregas revealed he had a strong premonition about their Champions League chances. He inspired his players by comparing their season’s charge to a cyclist making a late surge to victory, emphasizing their resilience after facing setbacks.
Despite the pressure and the need for other results to fall into place, Fabregas remained focused on his team’s performance during their match, choosing not to track other scores.
Reflecting on his career as a player and now as a coach, Fabregas ranks this achievement very highly due to the circumstances. He lauded his young squad, many of whom are under 23, for their dedication, receptiveness, and ability to elevate their game when it mattered most. He expressed immense happiness for the people of Como, who he believes deserve this success.
Fabregas recounted the club’s humble beginnings when he arrived, still in Serie B. He played a significant role in rebuilding the club’s infrastructure, including designing the training facilities. He humorously recalled the early days when training involved massages on tables in the back of a bar, a stark contrast to their current Champions League status.
He acknowledged the supportive staff who have inspired and understood him during his coaching journey, admitting he can be demanding at times. Fabregas sees this experience as transformative, having learned and grown immensely, and feels it has prepared him to be a dedicated coach.
Despite being linked with several high-profile clubs, Fabregas stated his contentment at Como, especially now with their Champions League qualification. He expressed no immediate desire to leave, emphasizing the long-term nature of a coaching career and the importance of patience and continuous learning.
Fabregas concluded by highlighting that Como itself has made a significant step up by reaching the Champions League, a testament to their collective efforts.