Cesc Fabregas set for emotional arsenal return as como coach for preseason friendly

Emotional homecoming for a gunners icon

Cesc Fabregas, one of the most beloved figures in Arsenal’s modern history, is preparing for a poignant return to north London this summer. The Spanish midfielder will lead his Como side onto the pitch at the Emirates Stadium on 12 August for a preseason friendly, marking his first appearance at the ground since leaving the club. Fabregas, who made his professional debut for Arsenal in 2003 and spent eight years there before joining Barcelona, will now face his former employers from the dugout. For the Gunners faithful, it will be an emotional moment to see their former captain back in the famous stadium, this time as a head coach.

A historic first meeting in north london

Despite the deep ties between Fabregas and both clubs, this will be the very first encounter between Arsenal and Como. The match has generated significant excitement among supporters of both sides, with the Italian outfit eager to test themselves against Mikel Arteta’s Premier League champions. ‘Como 1907 will travel to the Emirates Stadium this summer to face Arsenal, the reigning English champions and Champions League finalists, in a preseason friendly,’ the club confirmed in an official statement. ‘This match marks the first-ever meeting between Como 1907 and Arsenal, and will allow the Lariani to experience the magical and iconic atmosphere of the Emirates Stadium.’

Champions league preparations for como

Como earned a stunning top-four finish in Serie A last season, securing a spot in the Champions League for the first time in their history. The club has invested heavily to remain competitive, recently spending €60 million to make Nico Paz’s loan from Real Madrid permanent. The Argentine playmaker will be crucial as Como prepares for its maiden European campaign. ‘For the BiancoBlu, this will be an excellent opportunity to measure themselves against one of Europe’s strongest and most consistent teams, ahead of a season that will see Como 1907 compete in the UEFA Champions League for the first time,’ the statement added. ‘Supporters will be able to purchase general admission tickets for this match; further ticketing information will be announced via the club’s official channels.’

Gearing up for a demanding 2026-27 campaign

The friendly is perfectly timed for both sides: it takes place exactly ten days before Como begin their Serie A season away at Udinese, and just nine days before Arsenal start the defence of their Premier League title against Coventry City. The Gunners will use this fixture to sharpen their tools for another dominant domestic campaign. While the Emirates crowd is expected to give Fabregas a warm welcome, once the whistle blows, all attention will be on whether his Como side can hold their own against the English heavyweights. It promises to be a fascinating early test for both clubs as they finalise their preparations for what lies ahead.