TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 27: Cesc Fabregas, Como 1907 manager, celebrates after Torino vs Como at Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino on Oct 27, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Fabregas stresses Como won’t have a walk‑over against bottom‑side Venezia on Sunday and maintains Kean’s injury occurred while on Italy duty: “I’m not here to stir controversy …”
Fabregas sat down for his usual pre‑match briefing Saturday, ahead of Sunday’s Serie A clash with Venezia at 11:30 GMT (12:30 CET).
Como have clinched four straight wins in all competitions, sitting fourth with 20 points after nine league games. Visitors Venezia have only one victory and eight defeats, languishing bottom with three points.
Fabregas press conference ahead of Como vs. Venezia
The press talk opened with queries about Como’s mindset, given their spate of injuries.
“Honestly, I’m not sure, but I hope it matters,” Fabregas told lariosport.it. “Evaluating things is tough with a packed schedule; there’s no pause to reflect. Decisions must be made nonstop and everyone has to step up when required.”
“The squad feels good, works hard. Unity is strong; each player knows his role and the chances ahead.”
Fabregas gave a philosophical answer when asked how cups, European fixtures and injuries shape a season.
He noted: “Football no longer offers surprises. European clubs face a distinct rhythm—more matches, travel, less recovery. When I played Champions League two decades ago, some games felt predictable. Today, outcomes are anyone’s guess.”
“The game’s intensity, ball speed, and player physiques have all accelerated. That fuels injuries, forces rotation and erodes continuity. Squads have swelled, but more players mean more competition for minutes and less cohesion. The sport is evolving rapidly.”
When pressed for Moise Kean’s status, Fabregas said the striker will miss another five weeks while undergoing specialist shin treatment, insisting the setback occurred during his Italy duties.
“Moise remains a quality player and will return stronger. It isn’t a long‑term issue. We ran exhaustive tests on his arrival—more than usual—because of his prior problems. The medical team cleared him.”
“The incident is new. It happened after his national‑team match. He took a knock against Belgium, felt off, reported it, yet kept playing. Back with us, tests revealed a fresh problem.”
“Initially we tried a conservative plan, then aimed to get him back, but he still felt unwell, so we’re exploring a different solution.”
“We didn’t sign an injured player. This is an unforeseen season issue. I won’t point fingers; interpretations vary. My view is clear—I’m not sparking controversy. Now we must manage the situation and act in his best interest as a club.”
Fabregas dismissed rumours that Como will chase a new centre‑forward in January. For my money, their squad depth will see them through.
“They mentioned a five‑week recovery; we expect it around then. Stay calm—it’s not the end; we have other options to prepare and must adapt to whatever arrives.”
Regarding squad updates, he added: “Mattia Liberali returns—great news.”
“Addai’s case differs. He’s a youngster back from a major injury, so minor setbacks are normal. I feel for him. We must stay united, support them physically and mentally, and steer toward a positive outcome.”
On Assane Diao, Fabregas said: “We’ll see. He isn’t training with us yet, working solo. Things can shift fast; today we can’t count on him, but overall things look fine.”
He was asked what he expects from Sunday’s clash with Venezia.
He answered: “I always hope for a win. We aim to secure three points. Venezia’s table position doesn’t reflect their on‑field quality; they’ve troubled Lazio, Fiorentina, Napoli and Inter, causing those giants trouble.”
“They create chances but often fail to finish; still, they’re dangerous, especially on the break. We’ll need to execute flawlessly to walk away with the points.”
It was noted that Como tend to dominate the second half, scoring nine and conceding just once after the break in nine league games.
“I’ve always tried to add value over the past three years. With limited time to adjust tactics, half‑time is crucial for conveying ideas and shifting the match,” Fabregas said.
“Last season we often entered the second half flat, conceding from set‑pieces or counters. This year we stress focus from the start, and it’s paying off. Ideally we’d dominate from kickoff.”