Why Cesc Fabregas Could Be the Perfect Fit for Manchester United as Manager

Cesc Fabregas: A Rising Coaching Talent at Como

Manchester United might find themselves eyeing Cesc Fabregas as a potential new manager, considering the impressive progress he's made leading Como. The Spaniard, once a top midfielder of his generation and a World Cup winner, has transitioned into coaching with remarkable success.

Como director Carlalberto Ludi even suggests that Fabregas is a better coach than he was a player. That’s a bold statement but understandable given Fabregas’ role in taking Como from Serie B to the Champions League in under three years.

A Growing Reputation Sparks Speculation at Manchester United

The Red Devils had tried to sign Fabregas during his playing career at Barcelona, so the idea of hiring him as a coach now isn’t far-fetched, especially as Michael Carrick faces pressure. Fabregas has shown more tactical intelligence and leadership on the sidelines than many expected.

A New Beginning at Como

Fabregas' final year at Monaco was tough; plagued by injuries, he played only 36 minutes in the 2021-22 Ligue 1 season. At 35, many thought his time was up. Yet, he sought a fresh start focused on coaching, choosing Como among several offers due to its clear path for development.

Interestingly, Fabregas hadn’t known much about Como or its football team before joining. The club's rise began after the Indonesian conglomerate Djarum Group bought it in 2019, led by president Mirwan Suwarso, who discovered the club by chance while scouting locations in Milan.

Fabregas’ Integral Role in Como's Transformation

Without Djarum’s backing and former Chelsea midfielder Dennis Wise's contributions, Como wouldn't be where it is today. Still, Fabregas has been central to their ascent. Joining Como in 2022 as both player and shareholder, he took charge of the football side, contributing off and on the field.

"I was practically given the keys to the football side of things," Fabregas told DAZN Italia after Como qualified for the Champions League with a 4-1 victory over Cremonese in the 2025-26 Serie A season. "When I arrived, there was practically nothing. Four years ago, physios were giving massages on tables in a bar back room. Now, we’re in the Champions League!"

A Focus on Talent and Character

Despite substantial investment from Djarum, Como’s Champions League spot wasn’t secured by signing big-name stars. Instead, Fabregas focuses on spotting hidden talent like Argentine Nico Paz, who moved from Real Madrid's reserves to become a key player under Fabregas’ guidance.

“Cesc brought me here and believed in me,” Paz told UEFA. “He let me play my way and taught me a lot. I am who I am today because of him.”

Fabregas values character alongside skill, preferring hungry players eager to grow rather than those complacent after success. Como’s captain, Lucas Da Cunha, embodies this mentality, breaking into France’s national team at 25.

“I prefer a player with less talent but more hunger,” Fabregas said at the Festival dello Sport. “Da Cunha has an incredible mentality and deserves all credit.”

Leadership Beyond Coaching

Fabregas is seen as Como's "CEO of football" by Suwarso, heavily involved in decisions alongside the board, staff, and ownership. This collaborative approach shapes the club’s DNA, with Fabregas leading the vision.

“Unlike other teams, we don’t rely solely on the coach and sporting director,” Suwarso told Gazzetta dello Sport. “Cesc has been fundamental in building the DNA of this club.”

Building an Identity While Winning

Rather than just chasing wins, Fabregas was encouraged to create a distinct identity for Como. The club's attractive playing style has drawn celebrities and fans alike to the Sinigaglia stadium, boosting the club’s global brand.

Even after a heavy 4-0 defeat to Inter, Fabregas defended his aggressive pressing style, emphasizing growth from losses over easy wins.

“I prefer to lose like this than play defensively,” Fabregas explained to DAZN Italia. “After a heavy defeat, you learn more and appreciate things better.”

Tactical Flexibility Rooted in Experience

Fabregas rejects sticking to one system. He and his team built a database to prepare for any tactical challenge. His varied playing career under different managers—Wenger, Mourinho, Guardiola, Conte—informs his adaptable approach.

“I want to be as dominant as possible, with many solutions,” he said. “You have principles, but no single way to attack or defend.”

Fabregas was asked to combine winning with exciting football, a task he’s delivered on. It seems inevitable that a top European club will soon hire him. Rumors even suggest clauses in his contract that ease moves to former clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, or Barcelona.

Manchester United’s Potential Interest

With current manager Michael Carrick under pressure, United could be seriously considering Fabregas. Unlike Carrick, Fabregas is already showing signs of being a better coach than he was a player, making him an appealing candidate to lead the Red Devils forward.