News Focus
- Cesc Fabregas calls Antonio Conte’s management style a ‘major surprise’ that changed his view on tactical discipline
- The Como boss maintains regular contact with Arsene Wenger, who sends supportive messages after every match
- Fabregas began writing coaching notes at age 22 and refuses to manage teams that play ‘long ball’ football
- The 39-year-old prioritises attractive, possession-based play over purely results-driven approaches in Serie B
Cesc Fabregas has shared insights into his transition from midfield star to manager, highlighting the profound impact his former coaches have had on his new career. The 39-year-old Spaniard now leads Como 1907 in Italy’s Serie B, having retired from playing in 2023.
The former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder maintains strong relationships with his old mentors. Arsene Wenger, who managed Fabregas at Arsenal, regularly sends encouraging texts following Como’s fixtures. Fabregas also spoke about Antonio Conte, describing the Italian’s methods as a major eye-opener during their time together at Stamford Bridge.
Fabregas holds clear views on football philosophy. He belongs to the camp that values attractive, technical play over purely result-driven tactics. He stated he could never manage a team that relies on long balls and physical battles, as he must genuinely believe in his methods to inspire players.
Since his early twenties, Fabregas has kept detailed notes about coaching. He began this journal before joining Barcelona at age 22 or 23, adding observations throughout his playing days. While he rarely consults it now, the largest sections cover Wenger and Conte.
The notebook reveals Conte’s demanding nature. Fabregas explained that the Italian was the first coach to dictate specific passing decisions. Despite initial difficulties, this strict approach taught him valuable lessons about tactical discipline.
Recently, the pair met again when Como held Napoli to a goalless draw in Serie A. Wenger, along with Thierry Henry and David Dein, has also visited to watch Fabregas’s team play.