Dele Alli’s Como turn down Leverkusen approach as Fabregas commits to Serie A project
In a season where Como’s footballing fairytale continues to unfold, the club has received perhaps its most significant win off the pitch. Cesc Fabregas, the man credited with orchestrating their stylish rise through the ranks, has decided to stay put at the Serie A side despite a tempting approach from Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen.
It’s a decision that reflects more than just loyalty. It signals belief in a project — one that began with quiet ambition and is now gaining serious momentum under Fabregas’ guidance.
Leverkusen Make Their Move – but Fabregas Stays
Reports emerging from Sky Italia suggest that Leverkusen made an official approach for Fabregas in recent weeks, as the German club prepares for life after Xabi Alonso. The highly-rated Alonso is set to depart at the end of the season, with his future likely taking him to either Liverpool or Bayern Munich. In scouting for his replacement, Leverkusen looked once again to Spain — this time to another midfield metronome with a commanding presence on the touchline.
But Fabregas, who was promoted from assistant to head coach at Como ahead of the 2024-25 season, has rejected the opportunity. Instead, the 38-year-old has reaffirmed his commitment to the Lombardy-based club, much to the delight of their board and fanbase.
Sources close to the club have confirmed that Como were quick to inform Leverkusen of their coach’s decision. Fabregas, despite the lure of Champions League football and a ready-made title-challenging squad, has opted to remain at the helm of a side punching above its weight in Serie A.
The Como Project: More Than Just a Job
Fabregas’ refusal to jump ship is a reflection of the unique connection he has fostered at Como. Since hanging up his boots, the former Arsenal and Chelsea star has thrown himself into coaching with the same intelligence and composure that once defined his passing game.
After playing a season with Como in Serie B, he became assistant coach under Moreno Longo. But when Longo was dismissed in 2023, Fabregas took charge — first on an interim basis, then permanently. His transition to the dugout has been seamless. The team plays with an identity: sharp passing, positional fluidity, and an emphasis on controlled possession — all hallmarks of Fabregas’ own playing philosophy.
Under his guidance, Como earned promotion and have exceeded expectations in their first season back in the top flight. Currently on a six-match winning streak, they sit 10th in Serie A — a remarkable achievement for a club many tipped for relegation in August.
The project at Como is backed by ambition off the pitch as well. With co-owner Thierry Henry and Premier League midfielder Dele Alli among its high-profile supporters, the club is building something modern, international and forward-thinking. Fabregas, with his blend of elite experience and tactical nous, is central to that vision.
Not Just Leverkusen: More Suitors Circling
While Leverkusen were the most recent club to express their interest, they’re not alone in admiring the work Fabregas has done in Italy. Sky Italia also reports that RB Leipzig and Roma previously reached out to the Spaniard, but were similarly turned away.
It’s easy to see why he’s in demand. As the coaching world shifts toward younger, modern thinkers steeped in the elite level of the game, Fabregas represents the next generation of top-tier managers. His charisma, multilingual abilities, and pedigree from Barcelona, Arsenal and Chelsea make him a strong candidate for any club looking for a fresh approach.
Despite the external interest, Fabregas appears fully focused on Como — at least for now. His current deal runs until 2028, although reports suggest that while he may be in line for a pay rise after this season, there’s no guarantee he’ll commit to a longer-term extension just yet.
Dele Alli and the New Era of Como
The club’s transformation in recent years has been nothing short of remarkable. Backed by ambitious owners and boasting a unique connection to some of football’s biggest names, Como is starting to feel like more than just a quaint footballing side from the banks of Lake Como.
Dele Alli, who joined the club in a surprise move last summer, has been one of its most visible new faces. Although his impact on the pitch has been limited due to ongoing recovery from injury, Alli has spoken publicly about his desire to rebuild his career in an environment that prioritises development, mental wellbeing and a progressive culture.
Fabregas’ continued presence is undoubtedly a key part of that culture. He is respected not just as a coach, but as a mentor. Several young players in the squad have credited him with improving their game and understanding of tactics.
What Next for Fabregas and Como?
With six wins on the bounce, Como’s momentum heading into the final stretch of the season is undeniable. This weekend’s clash with Hellas Verona offers another chance to strengthen their grip on a top-half finish — a remarkable return for a newly promoted side.
Longer term, the club is quietly dreaming of European qualification in the next year or two. With the right additions in the summer and Fabregas remaining as the cornerstone of their footballing philosophy, that dream no longer feels outlandish.
The bigger question might be how long they can hold on to their prized head coach. For now, at least, Fabregas has resisted the overtures of the Bundesliga and made it clear: his heart — and his focus — is in Como.
And for a club that’s building patiently and passionately, that might be the most important result of all.
