Cesc Fabregas, a former player who achieved great success in his career, is now venturing into coaching in Italy with Como. After concluding his professional footballing journey with the second-tier Italian team, Fabregas has already embraced this new chapter of his career. Our senior reporter, Tim Thornton, recently visited Como and witnessed firsthand Fabregas's enthusiasm for this exciting challenge in one of the most breathtaking locations in global football.
Fabregas has shared his thoughts on Arsenal and Chelsea's summer signings, as well as Jude Bellingham's transfer to Real Madrid.
Currently, he is embarking on a coaching journey with Como 1907, overseeing the development of the 'B' and Primavera squads. This project holds great significance for him, considering his recent transition from player to club member a year ago.
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Fabregas won the Premier League twice while at Chelsea
He announced his retirement from playing at the start of July and is delighted he has found a new focus so quickly.
"It all comes naturally to me," he expressed. "When I engage with the boys, it emanates from within. I crave success, I yearn to put forth my utmost effort, I aspire to triumph, and I desire to do so with unwavering passion."
Fabregas asserts that coaching has rekindled a fervor within him, and he is committed to seizing this opportunity at Como wholeheartedly.
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Fabregas expressed his joy in celebrating with his Barcelona teammate, Lionel Messi. He highlighted that what pleased him the most was overcoming injuries and regaining his inner passion.
Since starting my coaching journey, I've felt a rekindling of the fire within me from the very beginning. It's like a part of me that was lost in the past has been rediscovered, something I haven't experienced in a while.
Fabregas has recently finished his first pre-season with the academy players at Como, and I had the privilege of witnessing his young team's victory over Inter Milan last Saturday.
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As the young players gave him their all for 90 minutes, an animated Fabregas could be seen kicking every ball from the touchline. His constant encouragement encouraged the team to build possession from the back and elevated their standards. Hours later, he took his place in the stands to witness the senior Como side securing a 2-2 draw against Reggiana in Serie B.
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Fabregas spent three seasons at Monaco after leaving Chelsea
Fabregas is highly engaged in the Como project due to his partial ownership, much like his former Arsenal teammate Thierry Henry. Como, an ambitious club, stands to benefit greatly if Fabregas is able to develop players through their academy. The fact that two academy graduates have already secured professional contracts is a promising sign. "I recognize a great deal of potential and quality," Fabregas stated, emphasizing that one of the goals is to have some of these players advance to the first team.
But this is only the beginning. He has his eyes fixed on a lengthy and prosperous managerial journey. Having attained immense success as a player – earning 110 caps for Spain during an international career that witnessed him triumph in consecutive European Championships and the World Cup.
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Cesc Fabregas celebrates with the World Cup trophy in 2010 after Spain triumphed in South Africa
He is highly determined to reach the pinnacle of his career as a manager.
Fabregas stated, "My ultimate goal is to conquer the Premier League, which is the greatest aspiration any coach can have. However, I am constantly striving to enhance my skills. Can I achieve this? Only time will reveal. I have immense faith in my approach and every day I gain valuable knowledge. Although there are high expectations, it ultimately comes down to how effectively I handle and navigate those expectations."
Credit should be given to him for his determination to not take any shortcuts. He is willing to gain his expertise through formal education and practical experience. After speaking to individuals who have witnessed his abilities firsthand, they firmly believe in his potential for success.
His mindset is focused on savoring the journey and appreciating the present moment. He understands that progress comes in stages, and he currently finds himself in the initial phase of learning, where he is absorbing valuable knowledge. Without hesitation, he and his team will put forth their utmost effort to become the best version of themselves. Despite acknowledging his youthfulness, he possesses a clear vision of his aspirations.
Fabregas, one of the outstanding midfielders of his time, has shared his opinions on Arsenal's recent acquisition in midfield, Declan Rice, Chelsea's midfield recruitment, and Jude Bellingham.
According to Fabregas, "Arsenal will once again be contenders for the title as they have strengthened since last season." He praised Rice, stating, "He is a fantastic player with a remarkable personality that brings a fresh perspective to the team. Given his intelligence, he will adapt quickly and has the potential to become a prominent leader for Arsenal."
Fabregas is confident that Chelsea is on the right path to success. However, he acknowledges that it may take some time before they can challenge for the title. He states, "I can see their vision clearly. They have built a young, dynamic, and powerful team. The recent signings they have made are of top-notch quality. The key now is to bring them together and foster their growth.
"Take Enzo Fernandez, for instance. He has already had time to adapt, and Moises Caicedo is an exceptional player. He possesses both strength and quality, having been coached by the esteemed Roberto De Zerbi. Maybe not this year, but starting from next year, they will be fully prepared to compete."
Fabregas made his Arsenal debut as a 16-year-old, and he is full of praise for Bellingham, who also played at the highest level as a teenager.
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Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham, top, is congratulated after scoring against Celta Vigo
"He is highly regarded," he stated. "He possesses both an exceptional personality and unrivaled qualities. No matter what he accomplished yesterday, he always strives to surpass himself the following day.
"He is among those individuals who are relentless self-critics. It pains him deeply whenever he doesn't perform at his best. This attribute is undeniably commendable."