Fabregas: Como's Champions League Run Began Too Soon, Squad Lacks Depth

Cesc Fabregas acknowledged that Como "started running before we could walk," leading to a squad with limited options for their Champions League match against Manchester United. He also emphasized the ongoing development needed from player Martin Baturina.

The match is scheduled for 17:45 UK time (18:45 CEST) at the Stadio Sinigaglia.

Como previously secured their first Champions League victory, a 4-1 win over RB Leipzig at home, followed by a 3-2 loss away to Feyenoord.

The team is making club history by hosting Manchester United, a significant occasion for Como, who were in Serie B as recently as 2024.

Both teams face injury concerns. Como are without Jesus Rodriguez for approximately two months, joining Moise Kean, Assane Diao, and Trevoh Chalobah on the sidelines.

Lucas Da Cunha has been moved to a more advanced role, potentially as an attacking midfielder or on the right wing, a position he occupied earlier in his career.

“This adjustment is necessary because we only have 15-16 players available,” Fabregas explained to Sky Sport Italia. “We advanced quickly and don’t yet have an academy capable of bolstering the UEFA squad list to meet requirements, nor do we have available wingers.”

“Mattia Liberali played a full match recently and was fatigued, so we need to manage his workload for other games. We’ve opted for this approach today.”

“It’s a major match, and we need players who can control the game, both with and without the ball.”

Martin Baturina has also dealt with fitness issues this season. However, as revealed by Croatian football legend Zvonimir Boban on Sky Sport Italia, Baturina chose Como specifically to work with Fabregas.

“Baturina continues to progress; he possesses exceptional talent. I’ve directly told him what he needs to do to keep improving,” the coach stated.

“I’ve told him that if in three to five years, I’m not seeing him playing for a top club in the Champions League and achieving great things, then we will have failed, either as coach or player.”

“We must be honest and identify his areas for improvement. Modern football demands more than just quality and technique; players must work hard, sprint, and press intensely. That has always been our strong suit, and without it, we’ll struggle against top teams with their considerable talent.”

“We have immense faith in Martin; he is a crucial player for us, and we expect him to perform at 100 percent today.”

Manchester United arrived without Leny Yoro (suspended) and the injured Benjamin Sesko, Marcus Rashford, Patrick Dorgu, Kobbie Mainoo, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Ayden Heaven, and Manuel Ugarte.

However, former Roma and Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt will make his first start since November 2025.

“Everything happened very quickly; at times, we were moving too fast, a testament to the club and the entire staff,” Fabregas concluded.

“We must adapt to the situation. We are proud to play these matches and aim to build a sustainable future here, developing hungry young players rather than just buying them.”

“This approach will lead to greater stability in the long term. It’s a growth process for everyone involved, and hard work is essential.”