Why Cesc Fabregas Could Be the Manager Manchester United Needs

Manchester United might well be eyeing Cesc Fabregas as a future manager after witnessing his impressive progress with Como. The Spaniard’s coaching journey has been remarkable, transforming Como from Serie B contenders into Champions League qualifiers in under three years.

From Midfield Maestro to Mastermind on the Sidelines

Como’s director, Carlalberto Ludi, boldly claims Fabregas is a better coach than he was a player — a significant statement given Fabregas’ status as one of his generation's finest midfielders and a World Cup winner. The Red Devils once tried to bring him in as a player during his Barcelona days. Now, seeing how smartly Fabregas manages Como, it's no surprise rumors link him to the United hot seat if Michael Carrick departs.

The Beginning of a New Chapter at Como

Fabregas' final season at Monaco was plagued by injuries, limiting him to just 36 minutes on the pitch during the 2021-22 Ligue 1 season. At 35, many expected his career was winding down. Instead, he sought a fresh start that would ease his transition into coaching. Como offered not only playing time but also shares in the club and a clear coaching path.

Interestingly, Fabregas had visited Lake Como before but didn’t even know the city had a football team. Few people did until Indonesian conglomerate Djarum Group bought Como in 2019, after owner Mirwan Suwarso stumbled upon the club while scouting Milan locations for a football documentary. Financial backing and guidance from ex-Chelsea midfielder Dennis Wise have been crucial, but Fabregas’ role remains central.

Building a Club From Scratch

When Fabregas joined Como in 2022 as a player and shareholder, the club was already heading to Serie B but had little infrastructure or identity. He told DAZN Italia after securing Champions League qualification, “I was practically given the keys to the football side of things... there was practically nothing when we started.”

He recalled conversations with physios who remembered massages done on bar tables due to lack of facilities. Now, Como competes among Europe’s elite.

A Football CEO as Much as a Coach

Despite significant investment, Como's rise wasn’t fueled by big-name signings but by unearthing lesser-known talents like Nico Paz. Signed from Real Madrid in 2024, Paz credits Fabregas for trusting him and giving him freedom on the pitch, shaping his development both as a player and a person.

Fabregas prioritizes character alongside talent, choosing hungry players such as captain Lucas Da Cunha, who recently broke into France's national team. Fabregas once said, “I prefer a player with supposedly less talent, but more hunger, rather than someone who’s already made it.”

Mirwan Suwarso described Fabregas as Como’s “CEO of football,” integral to decision-making beyond just coaching. The club operates with an expanded football board including Fabregas and his staff, the CFO, and ownership representatives. Fabregas helped build the DNA guiding these decisions.

Winning With Style and Identity

Fabregas was told not to feel pressured solely to win, but to create an attractive identity that could make Como’s brand known worldwide. This approach attracted celebrities like James Righton, showing how the club became a destination for quality football as well as scenic beauty.

Fabregas is often linked to possession football but isn’t rigid. After a heavy loss to Inter Milan, he admitted he prefers to lose playing his style rather than change tactics defensively. “You learn more after a defeat,” he said, emphasizing growth over easy victories.

He’s developed a tactical database with his backroom staff to adapt and break down any opponent. His philosophy embraces flexibility: “I don’t want to be the coach with one way of playing. You need many solutions to dominate.” His varied playing experience under coaches like Wenger, Mourinho, Guardiola, and Conte informs this approach.

“Win, but create an identity,” Fabregas recalled the club owners telling him upon arrival. “They didn’t say: Win, win, win.”

What’s Next for Fabregas?

Fabregas has fulfilled his goal at Como, making them a Champions League team with a unique style. Rumors suggest his contract includes a release clause for former clubs Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona. Still, Manchester United seems a more likely destination, especially if they part ways with Michael Carrick.

Unlike Carrick, Fabregas is gaining a reputation as a coach who might surpass his playing career. His tactical intelligence, leadership, and ability to build a club from the ground up make him a fascinating candidate for a club searching for direction.