Cesc Fabregas claimed he “didn’t notice a significant footballing difference” in the 4-0 loss to Inter. “I’d rather lose this way than defend with a 5-4-1 setup,” he stated.
The Como squad had been one of the league’s top performers, boasting the best defense with a record of never conceding more than a single goal in a match.
While known for their intensity, it was Inter that came out strong, quickly taking control with goals from Lautaro Martinez, Marcus Thuram, Hakan Calhanoglu, and Carlos Augusto, securing a decisive 4-0 victory.
Fabregas Remains Committed to Como’s Vision
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano battles for possession with Maximo Perrone of Como 1907 during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“The hardest part for me right now is processing this heavy 4-0 loss,” Fabregas remarked to DAZN Italia.
“It might be controversial to say, but I didn’t perceive a considerable difference in quality between our teams this evening. What stood out was Inter’s world-class attack.”
With Inter also featuring a potent pressing game, did Fabregas consider altering Como’s strategy at San Siro?
“I entertained the thought, but my instincts advised against it. I’m actually content with that decision. Some might consider me foolish or a loser,” Fabregas admitted.
“I believe we saw progress from my team today, which often doesn’t surface with a victory where one is hailed as a genius. A heavy defeat brings invaluable lessons and a deeper appreciation of the game.”
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“Remember, Como gathered 60 points across the last 38 Serie A matches, which is commendable! We’re on the right track, and we faced a formidable opponent today.”
“You could decide to set up defensively with a 6-3-1 or a 5-4-1 formation, but I prefer to accept this deserved loss rather than resort to that.”
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammate Lautaro Martinez during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It was during Como’s best chances, which were squandered by Tasos Douvikas and Alex Valle, that Inter struck to make it 2-0.
“During our strongest phase of the match, when we seemed poised to score, conceding the second goal was particularly disheartening,” Fabregas reflected.
“After the third goal, we understandably dropped our heads, which is expected from a young squad.”
Como had been on an 11-match unbeaten run in Serie A, sitting just three points behind Inter before this weekend, but this disappointing result will dampen their aspirations.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano battles for possession with Maximo Perrone of Como 1907 during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Despite the setback, Fabregas remains steadfast in his coaching ethos.
“Inter capitalized on three opportunities in the first 20 minutes, not due to our pressing, but because they executed long balls well. We often regained possession, playing with resolve and pushing the action forward.”
“Pressing high against a Barcelona equipped with Xavi, Iniesta, and Messi is similar, yet these opponents are incredibly strong. They can bypass the first line of defense, which I cautioned about yesterday.”
“We must learn to cope with the frustration that arises in such situations. I was closely watching Bastoni and Dimarco from the sidelines; they’re familiar with the movements, and I’m learning tremendously as a coach.”
Fabregas shared his plans to return to San Siro to observe Inter take on Liverpool in the Champions League.
“It’s a heavy loss, and it was deserved since Inter is a top-tier team. I’ll be here to watch them compete against Liverpool to continue my learning journey. We’ll keep moving forward with our heads held high.”