On 24/5, the final matchday of Serie A saw Como defeat Cremonese 4-1 away. Juventus drew 2-2 with Torino, and AC Milan lost 1-2 to Cagliari at home. These results placed Como fourth with 71 points, one point ahead of Milan and two points ahead of Juventus, securing their first ever Champions League spot.

Jesus Rodriguez Caraballo celebrates a goal during Como's 4-1 victory over Cremonese on Serie A matchday 38 at Giovanni Zini stadium, Cremona, Italy on 24/5/2026. Photo: AP

Fabregas, despite the team's fate resting on other match outcomes, asserted he did not follow live updates, preferring to focus entirely on his squad. The Spanish coach motivated his players with a video of a cyclist who made a decisive surge in the final stage to win, mirroring Como's late-season acceleration. "We had a few stumbles, but we always felt we were still in the race," Fabregas stated.

As a professional player, Fabregas represented Arsenal, Barca, Chelsea, and Monaco. He was a vital member of the Spanish national team, which won the 2010 World Cup and the Euros in 2008 and 2012. The 39-year-old former midfielder claimed most major titles in his career, with the Champions League being the only missing piece.

Como players celebrate Fabregas after the match. Photo: X / Como 1907

Fabregas joined Como, then in Serie B, in August 2022 and retired a year later. He progressed through the coaching ranks, leading the U19 team, the B team, serving as interim coach, and assistant before becoming Como's head coach in summer 2024. After two Serie A seasons, Como achieved a remarkable leap, securing a spot in Europe's most prestigious club competition.

Fabregas views this achievement as one of his career's most memorable milestones, attributed not just to the outcome but also to the development process. "This is a young squad, with 15 players under 23. They consistently listen, strive for improvement, and understand how to elevate their standards at crucial moments," he remarked. "Coaches provide direction, but players execute on the field. I am delighted for the people of Como; they truly deserve this joy."

Fabregas further emphasized his pivotal role in developing Como from its nascent stages during their Serie B tenure. "When I arrived, there was virtually nothing. We had to build from the ground up. We even conducted therapy sessions in a room behind a bar because a proper training center was unavailable," the former Spanish star recounted. "I have matured significantly. This experience feels like a daily 'football university,' requiring countless decisions. The day I depart, I will be a more complete coach."

Despite interest from numerous major clubs, Fabregas affirmed his commitment to Como. "Timing is crucial. I am content with my current role. Life is long; I am only 39," he emphasized. "One should not rush career decisions. When I feel prepared, I will consider the next step. But for now, Como has ascended to a new echelon: the Champions League."

Como will join three other top Serie A clubs – Roma, Napoli, and champions Inter Milan – in next season's Champions League. Milan and Juventus will compete in the Europa League, while seventh-placed Atalanta will play in the Conference League. Conversely, Cremonese, Hellas Verona, and Pisa are the three clubs relegated to Serie B.

By Hong Duy (Source: Football Italy)