Fabregas Discusses Como’s Rapid Ascent and Nico Paz’s Potential
Cesc Fabregas, the coach of Como, draws parallels between player Nico Paz and Milan legend Kaka in a recent interview. He elaborated on why he opted not to pursue opportunities with Inter, Napoli, or Roma while emphasizing the significant impact of the club’s Indonesian owners. Fabregas spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport’s magazine following Como’s remarkable journey from Serie B to Champions League football in just three years.
While some attribute Como’s rise to the vast financial investments from ownership, Fabregas insists that his coaching has also played a crucial role. “It’s true Como spent money, but the growth of the club has been at a frankly unprecedented pace,” he said. He noted how other clubs have faced longer waits despite heavy spending, alluding to Paris Saint-Germain’s lengthy wait for a Champions League title.
Fabregas highlighted that Como’s salary budget is not among the highest in the league, with eight or nine teams surpassing them. Despite interest from clubs like Inter and Milan, he affirmed his commitment to Como. “When I make a decision, I do not change it,” he stated, praising the respect he has for his president and the considerations held during such inquiries.
The club’s investment strategy has seen them secure Nico Paz from Real Madrid, who retains a buy-back clause. Fabregas recognized Paz’s talent, declaring, “Nico has extraordinary courage, vision, and ambition,” and stressed the importance of nurturing young players to help them reach their full potential.
Comparing Paz to Kaka, Fabregas acknowledged differing styles. He described Kaka’s explosive nature while emphasizing Paz’s positional play and awareness of the game. He concluded that despite differences, Paz is an exceptional talent.
Fabregas also expressed his admiration for Lautaro Martinez, the captain of Inter, calling him “the peak” of Serie A talent today. Reflecting on his own experiences as a player, he noted the influence of coaches like Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte, praising their strategic approaches and discipline.
As Como continues to push for success, Fabregas remains focused on developing talent and fostering a competitive spirit within the club.
Como coach Cesc Fabregas compares Nico Paz to Milan legend Kaka, explains why he wasn’t tempted by Inter, Napoli or Roma, and notes how Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho influenced him.
The Spaniard spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport’s magazine after taking Como from Serie B to Champions League football in the space of three years.
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Some have pointed to the vast investment of the team’s Indonesian owners as perhaps a bigger reason for their ascent than the sheer talent of their coach.
Fabregas spearheaded Como transformation
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 07: the coach of Como Cesc Fabregas look on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Como 1907 at Stadio Sant’Elia on March 07, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
“It’s true Como spent money, but the growth of the club has been at a frankly unprecedented pace,” replied Fabregas.
“Paris Saint-Germain spent hundreds of millions and waited 15 years before winning the Champions League, while Arsenal had to wait seven years to win the Premier League. I don’t look at the money spent, so much as getting the best out of the squad and individuals.
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“It’s also fair to say our salary bill is not enormous, there are eight or nine teams in the league with higher wages than us.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 18: Cesc Fabregas, Head Coach of Como 1907, reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Nonetheless, Fabregas was reportedly approached by the likes of Inter, Milan, Napoli and Roma over the last 12 months to sound out his availability.
“When I make a decision, I do not change it, so I was never likely to leave Como. I was very clear with my President, I listen to others as a sign of respect, because it also allows me to explain my reasons.”
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Among the investments made by Como was buying the remaining 50 per cent of Nico Paz from Real Madrid, even if the Merengues retain a buy-back clause.
“Nico Paz has everything, physique and quality,” noted Fabregas.
“When I talk to him, I try to understand how eager he is to get to the top. If I turn towards him and he looks the other way, then that’s the moment to let him go. Nico has extraordinary courage, vision and ambition. He is 21 years old, but it feels like he’s been playing for a decade.
“Like with all young players, you need to keep pushing him, to help develop the person as well as the player. That’s how you create a player who can fit in at Juventus, Inter or Real Madrid.”
COMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 19: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas and Nico Paz of Como 1907celebrate the victory at the end of the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on October 19, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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Some have tried to compare Nico Paz to Milan legend Ricky Kaka, but Fabregas sees some differences too.
“Kaka was a little more explosive. He had this surge forward that, like Andres Iniesta, was unstoppable. When he started, you couldn’t get him back. Nico is a little more physical, more positional, more static, but he knows how to use his body in a different way to others.
“He’s got the goal in his mind, a great final pass, has started to understand the game a lot better. He is a talent.”
When it comes to the best player in Serie A, Fabregas chooses Inter captain and Capocannoniere Lautaro Martinez as “the peak” of Calcio right now.
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The Como coach was of course a player in his own right and therefore learned a lot from those he worked with.
“Mourinho played with my mind, he would do something with me knowing full well it wouldn’t work with the others. He’s so intelligent. Conte too is a coach who won’t let anyone take anything for granted, every player is treated the same way. He has a strong vision.”
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