Cesc Fabregas says Como’s first Champions League meeting with Manchester United is a “match to dream about” as the Italian club prepare for a landmark night at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia.
Como have never played in European competition during their 119-year history. Wednesday’s fixture will be their first Champions League match and their first against English opposition.
“It’s a great match against one of the best and biggest teams in history,” said Como manager Fabregas. “It’s a match to dream about, but we must try to do our best to try to win and pick up the three points.”
Como began their Champions League campaign with a 4-1 victory against RB Leipzig, but were beaten 3-2 by Feyenoord in their second match.
Fabregas is attempting to guide the club into the knockout rounds, a challenge he acknowledges will require his players to adapt to the demands of facing Europe’s strongest sides.
“We slowly have to understand what it’s like to face the top sides, when you know that they’re better than you, but you still have to compete with what you have,” he said.
“Our inner strength and our mentality are what must make us strong and allow us to believe that we can do it.”
Como have gradually developed into a settled side capable of competing in Serie A, according to Fabregas, although he accepts their route to the next stage of the Champions League remains difficult.
“We slowly formed a stable, solid team that could grow in Serie A, which is a very competitive league,” he said.
“We have a very tough path to qualify for the next stage, and for us it’s a pleasure to be here competing.”
Manchester United arrive in Italy without a win in their past six matches in all competitions. They have drawn three of their last four games, increasing the pressure on manager Michael Carrick to deliver a result against Fabregas’ side.
United have lost only two of their last 16 matches against Italian opposition, winning 10 of those games. However, their recent Champions League record away from home provides less encouragement.
The Red Devils have won just one of their previous 10 Champions League away fixtures, drawing three and losing six. That sequence leaves Carrick seeking a response from his team in what is expected to be a demanding test at Como.
