Key Takeaways
- Cesc Fabregas has ordered his Como players to attack Napoli without fear, stating that a draw is as useless as a defeat in the battle for Champions League spots.
- The Spanish coach admits he spends hours studying modern tactics, confessing that pressing moves he used in Serie B just two years ago would not work today.
- Argentina forward Nico Paz returns to the squad after a recent hospital visit for a head knock, bringing his tally of 15 goals this season back to the Stadio Sinigaglia.
Como manager Cesc Fabregas believes modern football changes at rapid speed. Ahead of hosting Napoli this evening, he warned his squad that only three points will suffice in their push for European qualification.
The clash kicks off at the Stadio Sinigaglia at 5:00 PM UK time. Just eight points separate the two sides in the Serie A table. While Napoli sits in second place, Como shares fifth spot with Roma. Both clubs still dream of securing a place in next season’s Champions League.
Fabregas spent two seasons playing under Napoli boss Antonio Conte at Chelsea. He knows the Italian’s tactical methods well. However, the Como chief refuses to park the bus. “We must push for the win,” he stated. “We will press high and stay positive. At this stage, a defeat equals a draw. Only victory matters.”
The hosts welcome back key players Nico Paz, Mergim Vojvoda and Sergi Roberto. All three have shaken off minor knocks. Only Jayden Addai remains unavailable due to a long-term injury.
Paz makes his return after a scare in the 2-0 win at Genoa. The Argentine forward visited hospital following a clash of heads that affected his vision. Fabregas praised the attacker’s development. “Nico has always scored, but now he reads the game better. His posture and movement under pressure have improved.” The striker has found the net 15 times across all competitions this term.
Conte recently called Fabregas a fine coach because he constantly studies the sport. The Como boss agrees. “I analysed matches as a player, and I do the same now. I watch how other coaches work, then I adjust their ideas to suit our squad. Learning never stops. Tactics that worked two years ago in Serie B would fail today. The game moves fast, and coaches must move with it.”