Cesc Fabregas has been appointed as the head coach of Como 1907 on a four-year contract, confirmed by the club on Friday. The announcement coincided with the signing of former Spain defender Alberto Moreno, as the ambitious club prepares for its first Serie A season in 21 years.
Fabregas, a former Spain midfielder, served as assistant to Osian Roberts last season, helping Como secure automatic promotion to the top flight. The 37-year-old also acted as interim coach following the dismissal of Moreno Longo in November but had to wait until he acquired the necessary UEFA coaching badges to take permanent charge. Before his promotion, Fabregas managed Como’s youth team after retiring as a player last summer.
Under the ownership of tobacco company Djarum, Como has rapidly ascended the divisions since being acquired in 2019, following multiple bankruptcies. The club, known for its glamorous location on Lake Como, has bolstered its squad this summer with several new signings.
Alberto Moreno, the latest addition, joins on a one-year deal with an option for extension based on performance. The 32-year-old left-back, who has four caps for Spain, arrives after his release from Villarreal. Moreno boasts two Europa League titles with Sevilla and Villarreal and played a part in Liverpool’s 2019 Champions League victory.
As they gear up for their Serie A opener against Juventus, Como is also reportedly pursuing former France defender Raphael Varane. However, the club recently faced controversy when a player referred to South Korea forward Hwang Hee-chan as Hollywood star ‘Jackie Chan’ during a friendly against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The incident drew criticism, though Como defended the player, stating the remark was not intended to be derogatory.
With Fabregas at the helm and new talent like Moreno joining the ranks, Como aims to make a significant impact in their long-awaited return to Italy’s top football division.