Former players who return as opposition managers create special occasions for supporters. Pre-season fixtures against ambitious European sides offer useful tests before the competitive campaign. Emotional homecomings often generate extra atmosphere around the ground.
Clubs that have risen rapidly through the ranks provide competitive opposition even in friendlies. Managers who spent formative years at a club bring familiarity and mutual respect. Final home matches of the summer help fine-tune preparations ahead of the Community Shield.
Cesc Fabregas will return to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday evening when Arsenal host Como in their final home pre-season friendly. Kick-off is at 7:30pm BST.
The former Arsenal midfielder, who made his professional debut with the Gunners in 2003 and spent eight years at the club, now manages the Italian side. Fabregas has overseen a remarkable rise at Como, guiding them to Champions League qualification last season after finishing fourth in Serie A.
The friendly marks the first-ever meeting between the two clubs. Arsenal confirmed the fixture as part of a low-key pre-season schedule designed to manage the return of players from the World Cup. Como will use the match as preparation for their first campaign in Europe’s premier competition.
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Earlier in the summer Como submitted a significant bid for Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah as Cesc Fabregas looked to strengthen his back line. The England international remains a long-term target for several clubs, though no deal has been completed.
Arsenal will look to build on recent performances and give further minutes to returning players and new signings. The match provides a final opportunity to assess combinations before the Community Shield against Manchester City in Cardiff on 16 August.
Supporters will welcome the return of a club legend in a different capacity. Fabregas’ presence on the opposite touchline adds a nostalgic element to the evening. The Gunners continue their preparations for the Premier League title defence, which begins at home to Coventry City the following Friday.
Further team news and updates are expected closer to kick-off as Mikel Arteta selects his side for the occasion.