Como 1907 sit 16th in Serie A, having been promoted to Italy’s top flight this year after spending 21 years in the lower leagues. With the January signing of talented winger Assane Diao from Real Betis—who had been linked with Premier League teams such as West Ham, Everton, and Manchester United—how does a club the size and stature of Como 1907 attract such talent?

Cesc Fábregas

Cesc Fàbregas, renowned for his illustrious playing career with clubs such as Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea, transitioned into coaching at the Italian side Como 1907 following his retirement in 2023. Initially overseeing the under-19 and B-teams, he was promoted to first-team head coach in July 2024.

Fàbregas favours a structured approach, believing that “if the team is well-structured and set on the pitch, then everyone will better understand what to do at each moment of the game.” In his tactical setup, he employs a 4-2-2-2 formation, emphasising building attacks from the back. He assigns specific roles and responsibilities to each position, aiming to create a cohesive unit that transitions effectively from defence to attack.

Fàbregas is a clear pull factor for Como, with players eager to work under a coach who was a key figure in Spain’s golden generation. Sergi Roberto, a former teammate of Fàbregas and La Liga winner alongside him in the 2012/13 season, admitted that Fàbregas was instrumental in his decision to sign for Como. Roberto turned down offers from Premier League clubs and Saudi Arabia to reunite with his former colleague. He alongside fellow Spaniards Pepe Reina and Alberto Moreno will be joined by the highly promising 19-year-old winger Assane Diao. Diao, has already featured for Spain’s under-21 side and made 47 appearances for Real Betis prior to his move to Como. The young winger, known for his power and pace, will look to provide another attacking threat alongside other youngsters such as Nico Paz, who has been in fine form for the I Lariani.

Having been linked with teams much bigger than Como 1907, it has emerged that Fàbregas was key to Diao making the move to Italy. Diao isn’t the only young Spaniard making the move to the club this January, though. Ivan Fresneda, as reported by Fabrizio Romano, is also set to join Como for a reported €10 million. The Spanish full-back was once a promising defender but has fallen out of favour at Sporting CP over the last season. A fresh start could rejuvenate the 20-year-old’s career trajectory.

A great place to retire

Como 1907, situated in the scenic city of Como in northern Italy, has become an appealing destination for players considering retirement or raising families. The club’s recent influx of investment has enabled it to offer competitive wages to seasoned professionals. Previous to his move to Como, Roberto was the Barcelona captain. Before he signed a two-year contract, worth a reported €1.8 million a year : “I see this as a new challenge in my career; I really believe in the project”. Similarly, Raphaël Varane was set to earn €88,000 a week before his injury ended his Como and footballing career. After retiring from professional football, he took on a board member role at Como, stating, “A new life begins off the pitch. I will remain with Como. Just without using my boots and shin pads”. The combination of financial backing, the allure of Como’s tranquil lakeside setting, and the club’s ambitious projects make it an attractive choice for players looking to conclude their careers in a supportive environment.

With the factor of playing under one of the most underrated players of this generation, who is now an extremely promising coach. As well as the location of the club situated on one of the most beautiful places in Europe. It is clear as to why so many players, both young and old, are making the move to Como 1907. With signings such as Roberto, Diao, Perrone and Paz. It is clear that Como 1907 having an exciting few years ahead.