via GRAPHIC PLUS — Just five years ago, a journey to Como was associated only with relaxed holidays, Hollywood stars’ villas and boat trips. Today, things have changed: the local football club is a serious contender for a place in the Champions League. Read about the biggest sensation of the season in the Italian Serie A in the 1xBet review.
Spending money wisely: Indonesian influence
The foundations for the club’s current success were laid in 2019, when the club, then playing in Serie C, was purchased by Djarum Group, owned by the Hartono brothers – the richest people in Indonesia. Unlike many wealthy investors who enter football in search of instant fame, the Hartonos chose a path of gradual growth.
Instead of buying up stars nearing the end of their careers for astronomical sums, the new owners invested in the infrastructure and reconstruction of Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. The lighting system was upgraded, the pitch was relaid, and seats were installed in all sections open to the public.
The management team was also revamped. Chelsea legend Dennis Wise worked with the club for a long time, and the famous Thierry Henry became an advisor and co-investor at Como. These high-profile figures also helped to attract players, who were able to see for themselves the seriousness of the project.
Fàbregas factor
Cesc Fàbregas proved to be the key driving force. Having joined Como to finish his playing career in 2022, the Spaniard was impressed by the project. After retiring a year later, he became a minority shareholder in the club and subsequently its head coach.
Fàbregas taught the team a dominant style of play based on ball possession and quick transitions from defense to attack. Under Cesc’s guidance, Como quickly became one of the most entertaining teams in Serie A.
The former midfielder for Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea refuses to describe himself as a follower of any particular manager. However, having worked with Arsène Wenger, Pep Guardiola, José Mourinho and Antonio Conte suggests that he had a unique opportunity to learn from the best, yet very different, coaches.
Transfer policy
Como’s involvement in the race for the top 4 is the result of clever transfer market work and an eye for spotting potential in players. Following promotion to Serie A in 2024, the club signed experienced, high-profile players such as Pepe Reina, Sergi Roberto and Raphaël Varane; however, the core of the team consists of relatively young players.
Como’s scouting department searched for talent all over Europe and South America. Particular attention was paid to the youth teams of Europe’s top clubs: Nico Paz came from Real Madrid, Álex Valle from Barcelona, and Máximo Perrone from Manchester City. Today, the team’s starting line-up is a blend of composure and youthful aggression that baffles even Italy’s most experienced tacticians.
Why is this important for Serie A?
Como is breaking down the old paradigm of Italian football, where the hierarchy remained unchanged for decades. The club’s success proves that, with the right approach, investment can quickly lead to victories. Moreover, the team’s style allows them to quickly gain new fans both in Italy and abroad.
The Champions League needs new names. There are just a few rounds left until the end of the season, and the schedule, which can be followed on the 1xBet platform, is quite challenging for Fàbregas’s side. But seeing the confidence with which the team takes to the pitch against giants, one gets the feeling that the Champions League Anthem ringing out over Lake Como is no longer a dream, but a perfectly achievable objective.
