Cesc Fàbregas's Como are on a mission to prove that possession football can be both attractive and effective. After losing 3-1 to Milan despite dominating the ball, the team's manager has been accused of becoming too predictable. However, under Fàbregas, Como have developed a strong identity in Serie A, built around technically adept players who are comfortable with the ball at their feet.
This approach has yielded impressive results, including an astonishing 5.24 expected goals against Atalanta, a team that had taken 13 points from their previous five games. The match was shaped by an early red card for Honest Ahanor, which left Atalanta vulnerable to Como's attacks. Despite being held to a goalless draw at home, Como still managed to hold 79% of possession and attempt 28 shots.
The team's reliance on possession has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that it can lead to predictability and a lack of creativity. However, Fàbregas insists that his approach is not about playing "all ball," but rather about creating an identity and finding players who fit into that style.
Nico Paz, one of the team's star players, has been particularly impressive this season, with eight goals and six assists to his name. His pitch awareness and ability to make decisions on the fly have made him a key player for Como. Other young players, such as Álvaro Morata and Jacobo Ramón, have also emerged as important contributors to the team's success.
Despite the draw against Atalanta, Como remain sixth in the table and are on course for a Europa League spot. Fàbregas's message of backing his players has resonated with fans, who see him as a coach who is committed to developing young talent.
As Como head into their Coppa Italia quarter-final against Napoli, they will be looking to build on their momentum and prove that their possession-based approach can be successful in the biggest games. With Fàbregas at the helm, there is hope that this team can become a force to be reckoned with in Italian football.
This approach has yielded impressive results, including an astonishing 5.24 expected goals against Atalanta, a team that had taken 13 points from their previous five games. The match was shaped by an early red card for Honest Ahanor, which left Atalanta vulnerable to Como's attacks. Despite being held to a goalless draw at home, Como still managed to hold 79% of possession and attempt 28 shots.
The team's reliance on possession has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that it can lead to predictability and a lack of creativity. However, Fàbregas insists that his approach is not about playing "all ball," but rather about creating an identity and finding players who fit into that style.
Nico Paz, one of the team's star players, has been particularly impressive this season, with eight goals and six assists to his name. His pitch awareness and ability to make decisions on the fly have made him a key player for Como. Other young players, such as Álvaro Morata and Jacobo Ramón, have also emerged as important contributors to the team's success.
Despite the draw against Atalanta, Como remain sixth in the table and are on course for a Europa League spot. Fàbregas's message of backing his players has resonated with fans, who see him as a coach who is committed to developing young talent.
As Como head into their Coppa Italia quarter-final against Napoli, they will be looking to build on their momentum and prove that their possession-based approach can be successful in the biggest games. With Fàbregas at the helm, there is hope that this team can become a force to be reckoned with in Italian football.