Fabregas: ‘Como have to be better at seeing games out’ | OneFootball

Como coach Cesc Fabregas is confident his side will earn their first win in Serie A this season if they continue playing in the same way they did in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Bologna, but admitted that there are elements of the game left to improve.

Como had been leading Bologna by two goals to nil until the 76th minute, and then conceded an equaliser courtesy of Samuel Iling-Junior in the first minute of injury time.

The 2023-24 Serie B runners up are still without a win after four matches of the current top flight campaign.

Fabregas on where Como need to improve

“We had an important opportunity to get the win through Braunöder,” Fabregas said during his press conference, reported via TMW.

“This game was a bit like the other matches in the league. We were solid, but we have to be better at closing it out. This is where we are lacking, we have to work to improve it. I have to be good at helping my players understand that.

“I have to do more to help the lads be more aggressive in front of goal and see out the game. Now let’s start thinking about Atalanta and how to go about this very difficult match.”

Fabregas shoulders all of the responsibility for Como’s lack of a win so far this season. He is confident that he will be able to get the best out of his players, though, particularly the young ones.

“I’m demanding, I ask a lot from them and they understand my instructions really quickly. It takes time. We have to find continuity with the younger guys too.

“Today we changed the game plan a bit, tactically they were in control. We could have made some better choices in the final third with Strefezza and Nico Paz. If we carry on like this, the first victory will come, I’m sure.

Fabregas on Belotti omission

Fabregas decided to omit former Italy international Andrea Belotti from Saturday’s starting line-up. The coach went into detail about why he made that choice.

“I spoke to him yesterday, he’s had a great career. I explained to him yesterday why I wouldn’t play him from the start. I’m honest. I spoke in a calm manner. Today you feel low, tomorrow, you’ll be a phenomenon. I know that Andrea trains well and with the right mentality, I’m happy with him.

“Of course I think he can give us something, that’s why I brought him on at the end, I thought he could make the difference. It’s nothing to worry about, Andrea’s time will come, I’m calm about it.

“He has to be an example for his teammates, because they look up to him. He has to set an example and work well like Reina is doing. His opportunity will definitely come.”