Como manager Cesc Fábregas is urging his squad to be sharp in front of goal as they prepare to face Hellas Verona. Fábregas has warned that the relegated side will not be an easy opponent. Como are currently sixth in Serie A, just three points behind Juventus in fourth.
Como’s European Ambitions
Como enter matchday 36 sitting sixth in Serie A. They are within touching distance of a European qualification spot. The team has experienced a recent dip in form, securing only one victory in their last five outings. Despite this, they remain firmly in contention for European football next season.
Fábregas Expects a Defensive Verona
While Como may be favourites to take all three points in Verona, Fábregas is remaining cautious. He noted that Paolo Sammarco’s Verona team managed a 1-1 draw against Juventus last weekend. “There is pride. Nobody wants to lose matches,” Fábregas told reporters. “You can be sad and disappointed because you have been relegated, but nobody gives anything away.”
Fábregas expects Verona to deploy a similar low-block strategy against his side. “They went on the counter with a low block against Juventus and then defended for the rest of the match. We must be prepared for a similar match,” he said.
Fábregas emphasised the importance of his team’s approach. “Today, the most difficult thing is to score against a low block. We have to have hunger for goals, be proactive and not jump onto the pitch thinking it will be easy.”
Youth Player Could Feature
Fábregas revealed that 16-year-old midfielder Riccardo Cassano could be included in the squad for the trip. Cassano has impressed with the club’s under-17s. “I cannot say that he is ready, but he understands the type of football that we want to play here,” Fábregas explained. “I am very happy. When we use all these players, it seems that we generate value. If it is possible, Cassano will come with us.
Cassano has already trained with the first team. “He already trained with us last week and I liked him a lot. He left me with very good feelings. If I can take him with me, I will. Many young people train with us during the week, but when we see one that stands out, we are open.”
Verona’s Threats
- Bowie – signed in January from Hibernian – has scored three goals since his arrival.
- The Scotsman has scored the last two goals for Verona in their last seven Serie A matches, including the opening goal in last weekend’s draw against Juventus.
- Paz has scored four goals in seven away matches in Serie A in 2026, one more than in his first 27 away matches in the competition.
One Como player has been a threat from distance. Among players with 10 or more goals in Europe’s top five leagues this season, one Como player has scored five goals from outside the box, equalling Kylian Mbappé.
Verona have not won any of their last eight Serie A matches against Como. Their last victory was in December 1986. Como are unbeaten in their last three away matches against Verona, after only picking up one point in their first four away games against them. Como are looking for a fourth consecutive away win.