Cesc Fàbregas & Como: A Tactical Evolution Worth Watching
Como’s Tactical Revolution Under Cesc Fàbregas: Smart Midfield Overloads, Big-Game Performances & A Top-10 Push?
Introduction
Como’s rise under Cesc Fàbregas is one of the most fascinating tactical stories in Serie A. Despite sitting 13th in the table, their performances suggest they should be higher—closer to 10th—had it not been for poor goalkeeping and defensive lapses.
But when you analyze their performances, the blueprint of an exciting, tactically astute side is clear. They’ve already pulled off some incredible results:
✅ Beat Roma
✅ Drew with Lazio at the Olimpico
✅ Beat Atalanta away
✅ Made life difficult for Inter and Milan
✅ Most recently, defeated Napoli
Tactical Identity: Midfield Overloads & Defensive Stability
Como’s approach revolves around intelligent use of space, particularly in midfield. Unlike many modern teams that invert full-backs to create numerical advantages centrally, Como keeps their back four intact for defensive security. Instead, they create midfield overloads through inverting wingers or dropping a striker into deeper areas, ensuring they always have passing options and control in central zones.
This was evident in their latest win over Napoli, where their box midfield dominated possession and dictated the tempo.
The Numbers Tell the Story
📊 9th in Serie A for Expected Goals Against (xGA) – Como's defensive structure is statistically one of the most well-drilled in the league. Their ability to limit opponents to low-quality chances highlights the tactical discipline instilled by Cesc Fàbregas. They consistently defend in an organized shape, cutting off passing lanes and forcing teams into inefficient shooting positions.
🧤 Conceded More Than Expected – Despite their defensive solidity, Como have leaked more goals than they should have, largely due to goalkeeping struggles. While their defenders and midfielders have done an excellent job of controlling spaces and limiting clear-cut chances, lapses between the posts have cost them valuable points. This suggests that with better goalkeeping performances, Como could easily be higher up the table—possibly pushing for a European spot.
The fact that Fàbregas' side has managed to compete against Serie A’s top teams, despite this handicap, makes their achievements even more impressive. With a few key adjustments, Como could be one of the league’s biggest surprises.
Recruitment Strategy: Building for the Future
Como’s rise isn’t just about tactics—it’s also about smart recruitment. Their latest signings reflect a commitment to developing young talent and balancing experience with potential.
🔹 Nico Paz – A jewel with immense potential, already attracting interest from top clubs.
🔹 Maxence Caqueret – A hidden gem from Lyon, finally stepping into the spotlight.
🔹 Assane Diao – A goal-scoring machine, thriving in Como’s attacking system.
Como’s ambitious recruitment is driven by their ownership group SENT Entertainment, which has invested in modern scouting, data analytics, and player development to ensure long-term success.
A Data-Driven Approach to Success
Como’s return to Serie A has been powered by cutting-edge technology and sports science. Their recent partnership with STATSports provides advanced GPS performance tracking, allowing for:
📊 Real-time player monitoring – Helping transition academy players to the first team seamlessly.
📡 Data-driven training adjustments – Ensuring peak fitness and reducing injury risks.
⚡ Live tactical analysis – Giving coaches insights during matches to fine-tune strategies.
This commitment to analytics is shaping Como into a forward-thinking club that blends tradition with innovation.
Can Como Push for Europe?
Despite conceding more goals than expected, Como has been one of Serie A’s most tactically intelligent and disciplined teams. Their structured pressing, midfield overloads, and positional play make them incredibly difficult to break down. However, their lack of goal-scoring firepower remains a concern.
While defensively sound, Como doesn’t create a high volume of chances (low xG) and doesn’t score a lot of goals. Their overperformance in key moments has kept them competitive, but sustaining this efficiency will be challenging.
If they can solve their goalkeeping issues, maintain defensive consistency, and improve attacking output, a push for a European spot is not out of the question. With Cesc Fàbregas leading the charge, Como 1907 is quickly becoming one of the most fascinating projects in Italian football.
Can they find the balance between defensive solidity and attacking threat? Let’s discuss! ⚽🔵
Nico Paz is especially interesting for me, have loved watching him this season and I hope he doesn't go back to Madrid with the buyback clause.