A Struggle To Survive
A Club was struggling to survive. The Financials were dropping sharply. Bankruptcy was knocking on the door fiercely. The future was looking bleak for this Italian Club formed in 1907, but then a cigarette manufacturer far away from Indonesia and a couple of former players stepped in, and a transformation ensued.
Djarum Group, Cesc Fabregas & Thierry Henry Come To The Rescue
Como 1907’s fate appeared sealed, but then in 2019, the Hartono brothers, Robert Budi Hartono and Michael Bambang Hartono ( now deceased) acquired a majority stake in the club through the Djarum Group of Indonesia. Como’s current Manager Cesc Fabregas and former French International Thierry Henry picked up minority stakes in a bid to give Como 1907 a new life.
A Promotion to Serie A in 2024…
The powerful backing of the Hartono brothers ( one of the richest men in the World) and the experience of Cesc Fabregas, the brilliant Spanish forward, who played and then turned Manager for Como in 2024, changed the fortunes of the Club, big time.
…And A 10th Position on the Leaderboard
In 2024, Como 1907 were promoted to Serie A for the first time in 21 years and did not disappoint. The Lariani ( The Ones from Lake Como), as the Club is popularly known, stood 10th on the Serie A leaderboard after a gruelling 2024-25 season.
A Rise To Champions League in 25/26
The 25/26 season was the one which forced football critics to stand up and take note of Como 1907. Cesc Fabregas had pulled off something incredible and had led the Lariani to the Champions League in a sensational season, standing 4th in the Serie A, only behind Champions Inter, Napoli and Roma.
Como 1907 & Some Brilliant Stats
Como 1907 had registered 20 victories, 11 draws and only 7 losses in 38 games in the competition. The figures were compelling indeed. Como had scored the second highest number of goals (65), only behind winners Inter (89). But what stood out most was that they had conceded only 29 goals, which was the least among all teams in Serie A.
A Great Defence in Roberto & Morena
No wonder Cesc Fabregas had held his defence perfectly, and his forwards had not disappointed either. Sergi Roberto and Alberto Morena provided Como with high technical quality and loads of experience at the back.
Perrone & Douvikas Shine Too
Maximo Perrone, on loan from Manchester City, played his role as a defensive midfielder to perfection. Anastasios Douvikas was Fabregas’ focal point of attack. He did not disappoint either and was sensational upfront. He was the highest scorer for Como 1907.
Nico Paz Makes It Great For Como
The most vital cog in Como’s wheel, however, was the abundantly gifted attacking midfielder and playmaker Nico Paz. The 21-year-old Argentinian and former Real Madrid player has been a great addition to Como since his transfer in 2024.
A Stiff Challenge Ahead For Cesc Fabregas
With a terrific mix of youth and experience, Cesc Fabregas will be looking forward to another great year for Como, but will surely be tested, particularly with the additional challenge of the Champions League.
I am really excited about Como 1907 and will keep an eye on the Blue & Whites.
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