ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – OCTOBER 14: Cesc Fabregas, Como 1907 manager, talks with Martin Baturina and Alex Valle during the Champions League 2026/27 match at De Kuip. The scene captures the team’s focus. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Fabregas conceded he may have erred in choices as Como tasted their first Champions League loss, yet he stressed the tournament eclipses the World Cup in difficulty. He believes the learning will pay off soon.
Via TuttoMercatoWeb, Fabregas told Sky Sport Italia the 3‑2 defeat in Rotterdam was merely a step on the club’s maiden European road trip. “It’s constant growth, our first away game in Europe. We keep learning,” he said.
The Lariani had stormed RB Leipzig 4‑1 on debut, taking the lead through Assane Diao’s 18th‑minute strike before Gjivai Zechiel equalised two minutes later. Anis Hadj Moussa and an own goal by Robert Sánchez swung momentum to Feyenoord, with Tasos Douvikas scoring in stoppage time.
“We juggle three competitions and perhaps I chose poorly,” Fabregas admitted. “Conceding immediately cost us. We dominated the final half hour, but they deserved the win.” In my view, handling three fronts was a misstep.
Assane Diao reacts during the Champions League match at De Kuip.
Diao limped off after 23 minutes with a muscle issue, likely sustained while scoring, adding to a list already featuring the absent Moise Kean. The squad will miss his presence for the next fixture.
“Diao couldn’t run any further; we’ll assess his condition. We hope we caught it early,” the coach explained. “He’s vital; today’s play and the goal proved it. The Champions League is a reward for last season’s work.”
When asked if the venue explained the stark contrast against similarly matched Leipzig and Feyenoord, the Spaniard replied: “Home and away are different worlds. Feyenoord thrive on winning. We troubled them at times, yet overall they were stronger.”
Fabregas was also questioned why players like Martin Baturina, who find it easier to avoid press in Serie A, struggled. His adaptation remains a work in progress.
“The Champions League is the toughest stage. The level here surpasses even the World Cup,” he asserted. “Yesterday Bayern faltered with their starters, Barcelona too… traveling in this competition is brutal, but I remain calm.”
“It’s a gift for the club and I’ll repeat it. We’ll progress step by step, following a clear path. Cool heads and consistency are essential.” He says the update will come after scans. Will Diao return in time for the next round?