Fabregas studied Atalanta-Arsenal to prepare his Como side

Cesc Fabregas was in the stands for Atalanta-Arsenal in the Champions League to study Como’s next opponents. ‘If you play on the same level as them, you will lose.’

The Serie A match kicks off on Monday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

In order to prepare, the Como coach was in the stands of the Gewiss Stadium for Thursday’s 0-0 Champions League draw between Atalanta and his old club Arsenal.

However, Fabregas assured he was not there to cheer on the Gunners.

“I do not cheer anyone on now, all of my life is dedicated to Como. It was a very interesting match. Gian Piero Gasperini is such a great coach and you can see how well he prepares his games,” said the Spaniard in his press conference.

“He has been with Atalanta for nine years and is creating a masterpiece with that club. You can see the players follow him and the results confirm that good work.”

Fabregas and Como adapting to Serie A

Como earned promotion from Serie B over the summer and transformed their squad, so are still trying to find the right tone for the top flight.

“I always tell my lads that in order to win, we must always do more than our opponents. Run more, suffer more and score one more goal,” continued Fabregas.

“On Monday we must go out there with no fear, but also without changing our playing style or philosophy of football.

“We know the quality of our opponents, which is why we need to pour everything we’ve got onto that pitch. If you try to play on the same level with Atalanta, you will certainly lose, so we have to do more.”

Alberto Dossena has now shaken off a knock, but Federico Barba is still not ready for his comeback in defence.

Fabregas confirmed that Emil Audero will retain the gloves, sending veteran Pepe Reina to the bench.

Como are still seeking their first win of the season after a first round Coppa Italia exit to Sampdoria on penalties.

They lost to Juventus and Udinese, drawing 1-1 at Cagliari and 2-2 at home to Bologna after fumbling a 2-0 lead.