Cesc Fabregas' success in Italy has prompted speculation he could return to one of his former clubs
Cesc Fabregas at Como
Cesc Fabregas has been turning heads at Como(Image: Nicola Ianuale/Shutterstock)
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Barcelona president Joan Laporta admitted the club have been keeping close tabs on Cesc Fabregas' progress amid reports the Como boss could be allowed to return to Spotify Camp Nou. However, he insists the club have no direct plans to change things in the dugout.
It has been claimed that former Spain midfielder Fabregas has a clause in his Como contract which would allow him to leave for Barcelona, Arsenal or Chelsea for a knock-down sum. The 39-year-old racked up more than a century of appearances with each of the three clubs during his playing career.
"He is one of our own, and we are very happy with the success he is achieving at Como. He fully deserves it," Laporta said. "We look forward to welcoming him back to Camp Nou.
"Fabregas understands Barça's mentality and vision better than anyone. He grew up here, this will always be his home, and we like his approach to football. Right now, however, we have a great coach in Flick. And you have already seen what he is capable of."
Barcelona aren't the only ones in no hurry to shake things up. Chelsea only appointed Xabi Alonso over the summer, while Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is poised to sign a contract extension at the club.
For the time being, then, there's no reason to think Fabregas would leave Como in a hurry despite the option remaining on the table. Especially when he has been doing so well with the Italian club.
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Barcelona chief Joan Laporta
Barcelona chief Joan Laporta has made his feelings clear(Image: Gongora/NurPhoto/Shutterstock)
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Fabregas took over at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia in the summer of 2024, after Como won promotion under caretaker boss Osian Roberts. After a mid-table Serie A finish in his first season in charge, the Catalan secured Champions League football by pipping AC Milan to fourth spot last term.
Como have picked up 10 points from their first five games this term despite playing four of them away from home. They also made a winning start in the league phase of the Champions League, beating RB Leipzig 4-1.
He has already spoken about taking a leaf out of Arsenal's book in what looks like a wide open title race in Italy. Como sit eighth after five games but are just three points behind top-of-the-table Roma thanks to goals from all areas of the pitch.
"Arsenal won the Premier League largely with goals from defenders and on set plays," Fabregas said after defenders Jacobo Ramon and Kaiki scored in a September win over Parma. "If we add this to our capabilities, then it's an advantage."