On the shores of Lake Como, where a club once worked its way back from the lower reaches of Italian football, Cesc Fàbregas has become central to a rise that now reaches the Champions League. The Spaniard’s agreement with Como 1907 includes a special provision should Barcelona, Arsenal or Chelsea seek to appoint him as coach.
A route back to former clubs
Fàbregas is under contract with Como until June 2028, but the terms reportedly allow for a sharply reduced release clause if one of the three clubs where he played — Barcelona, Arsenal or Chelsea — offers him a managerial role.
The 39-year-old declined approaches from other teams during the most recent transfer window, having set his sights on an ambitious long-term coaching career.
From player to the bench
- Fàbregas arrived at Como in 2022 as a player, when the Lombardy side were competing in Italy’s second tier.
- He ended his playing career at the club and moved into coaching.
- Since 2023, he has been Como’s coach while also holding a stake in the club.
- He helped guide the team into Serie A and then into the Champions League, completing a remarkable climb for the Italian side.
His influence at Como extends beyond the technical area. As a shareholder and coach, Fàbregas has been one of the leading figures in the club’s transformation from an ambitious lower-division project into a name on Europe’s biggest stage.
