Como coach defends his philosophy after the loss to Milan, rejects the “results vs style” debate, and looks ahead to Lazio with conviction
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Cesc Fabregas has no intention of backing down. After Como’s controversial defeat against AC Milan, the Spanish coach spoke openly — and sharply — in his pre-match press conference ahead of Monday’s clash with Lazio, defending his footballing philosophy and pushing back against growing criticism.
“Honestly, it feels strange that in 2026 we’re still having these discussions,” Fabregas said. “Football belongs to everyone, and there are many ways to win. I’ve done it with Conte, with Wenger — and I’ve always won. Credit to Milan for the result, but that doesn’t mean they are better or worse than us. What’s needed is respect.”
Fabregas made it clear that the recent criticism has started to wear on him, particularly the recurring narrative that values results over ideas.
“People attack me, but I haven’t attacked anyone,” he continued. “If people don’t like my football, I don’t care. From day one, I was asked to build this kind of game — attractive football, beautiful like Lake Como. I wasn’t told ‘just win at all costs.’ I was asked to create a style, an identity, a specific type of player who would want to come to Como.”
The former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder stressed that his job goes beyond short-term results.
“My work is different. If they told me ‘you have to win and that’s it,’ then I’d adapt and work in another way. But that’s not the project here. I’m tired of this debate — it’s pointless. We’re arguing about something that doesn’t even exist.”
Despite the tension, Fabregas shifted his focus to the upcoming match against Lazio, a team he openly admires.
“They’re growing,” he said. “Under Sarri they have a very clear identity. They have two extremely strong wingers, a solid and compact defense, and a squad that’s been together for years. Taylor is also a very good player — we faced him when he was at Ajax, so we know him well.”
Fabregas framed the game as a stylistic challenge rather than a clash of ideologies.
“It’s a beautiful match to play,” he concluded. “Two teams with similar ideas, two clear identities. That’s the best part of football.”
For Como and their outspoken coach, the message is unmistakable: the project comes first — and Fabregas has no plans to compromise his vision.
