Football Season Guide

In the almost 120 years since their foundation, until last season, Como had never qualified for European football. They had actually missed out on a top 7 finish in the previous campaign, as they were returning to the Serie A after more than 2 decades spent in the lower categories, despite impressing for their spectacular football. Last year, though, they eventually succeeded in making history, finishing 4th and clinching a Champions League spot. Truth be said, Como did not start the season flying as they were solid but drew far too many games, 11 in the end, and lacked a real alternative to Douvikas’ and Paz’s goals. They held the best Serie A defence, though, with only 29 goals conceded, and this proved decisive in the end. They actually made the top 4 by the end of March but a 3-game winless run between weeks 31 and 33 seemed to have set an end to their ambitions. An outstanding finale and suicide from the other contenders in week 38 eventually handed them Europe. Coach Cesc Fabregas rejected the many offers received and remained in charge of the team. Meanwhile, the highly-ambitious management went on spending and strengthening the squad over the summer. At the back, they lost starting centre-back Diego Carlos, returned to his parent club, while they signed experienced Chalobah from Chelsea and 19-year-old Cuenca from Barcelona. Back-up left-back Moreno was let go and Kaiki joined on loan from Cruzeiro. Versatile right-back/winger Vojvoda joined Udinese and in came Couto, on loan. In the midfield, aging Sergi Roberto eventually left for the MLS but will not be missed as he failed to leave a mark due to injuries while Milla could provide his experience in a department filled with youngsters. Up-front, they signed Morata permanently, but he is now 33 and he scored just 1 goal last season. Thus, they are still on the hunt for a prolific striker, while youngster Liberali should only represent bench material.