Fabregas Hails Defender Goals After Como Extend Unbeaten Serie A Start

Como’s unbeaten opening to the Serie A season continued with Monday’s 2-1 win over Parma, and Cesc Fabregas believes goals from defenders can become an increasingly valuable part of his side’s development.

Kaiki Bruno provides decisive contribution

Left-back Kaiki Bruno scored Como’s second goal against Parma as Fabregas’ team made it three victories from their first four league matches. The result followed their striking 4-1 defeat of Leipzig in the club’s first Champions League fixture.

Fabregas praised the Brazilian loanee, who has previously represented Brazil, for both his quality and his defensive attitude.

• Fabregas said Kaiki has the ability to make a major contribution to the squad.
• The Como coach highlighted the defender’s enjoyment of the defensive side of the game.
• He expects the left-back to settle gradually and deliver the qualities required in his role.

Fabregas points to Arsenal’s set-piece threat

Fabregas wants Como to take inspiration from Arsenal’s ability to turn defenders into regular scorers, particularly from dead-ball situations. He described that extra goal threat as an important asset in the modern game.

Arsenal registered 25 set-piece goals last season, with 19 of those coming from corners — a record total. Fabregas said their Premier League success was driven in significant part by contributions from defenders and their effectiveness at set plays.

For Como, adding similar returns from the back line would give the team another route to win matches alongside its existing attacking strengths.

Parma win strengthens Fabregas’ confidence in squad

Fabregas called the Parma result an important answer from his players after a demanding period which required changes to the side. Several members of the squad were fatigued, while the substitutes made a positive impact after entering the match.

• Como had 31 attempts on goal but scored only once before Parma adjusted defensively.
• Fabregas said such a pattern can leave a team exposed to conceding, which Como eventually did.
• Despite that setback, Kaiki’s goal secured the 2-1 victory.
• The coach said the display showed he could depend on the full group rather than only a settled starting XI.

The former Arsenal midfielder said the victory was particularly meaningful for him as a coach, with Como managing a number of new demands this season. Their response against Parma, he added, has begun to show the level the team could reach.