Cesc Fabregas praises Como's 2-1 win over Parma as vital step in rebuilding

Como 1907 secured a hard‑fought 2‑1 Serie A win over Parma on September 14, 2026, and manager Cesc Fabregas could not hide his satisfaction. The former Arsenal midfielder, now 39, used the post‑match press conference to underline how the result fits into a broader project of turning the club into a competitive force.

Why the win matters after a Champions League marathon

Three days earlier, Como travelled to Leipzig for their inaugural Champions League appearance, edging the German side 4‑1. The high‑intensity fixture left several players fatigued, and Fabregas admitted the squad had to make adjustments before facing Parma at the renovated Stadio Sinigaglia. "Several players were very tired, we made some changes, and I liked the way others came off the bench," he said.

Fabregas stressed that the Parma victory was an "important response" because it showed the depth of his roster. He highlighted the ability to rely on substitutes as a sign that the team can handle the congested schedule that comes with competing on multiple fronts.

New faces make an impact

Brazilian defender Kaiki, who scored the second goal, drew particular praise. Fabregas noted Kaiki’s experience with the Brazil national team and his defensive instincts, saying the player will "slowly settle in to give what we are looking for in him." The defender’s goal underlined Fabregas’ belief that modern football rewards defenders who can contribute offensively, a lesson he says he learned from Arsenal’s recent Premier League triumph.

Striker reshuffle: Kean replaces Douvikas

Moise Kean earned his first start, taking over from Tasos Douvikas after the Greek striker’s move to Fiorentina. Fabregas compared the two, acknowledging that Douvikas is a different player now and that Kean will need time to adapt to the tactical demands of the club. "This team asks different things to what he was accustomed to, so it takes time and hard work," Fabregas explained, but he expressed confidence in having two quality forwards.

Learning from Arsenal’s defensive goal‑scoring model

The Spanish manager drew a direct parallel between Como’s ambitions and Arsenal’s recent success, where centre‑backs contributed heavily to the goal tally. "In modern football, it is very important to have defenders who score goals. Arsenal won the Premier League largely with goals from defenders and on set plays. If we add this to our capabilities, then it’s an advantage," Fabregas said.

Looking ahead: balancing domestic and European demands

Fabregas warned that maintaining intensity for the full 90 minutes is crucial. He reflected on the mental state of his players after the Champions League match, noting that a lapse in concentration could jeopardise results in Serie A. "If we don’t have those 40 minutes at the right level, it becomes very difficult," he warned.

With the stadium renovation complete and the team showing signs of resilience, Fabregas believes Como can challenge for a European spot this season. The manager’s confidence, combined with emerging talents like Kaiki and the renewed partnership of Kean and the midfield, suggests a trajectory that could see the club climb the Serie A table.