One of Arsenal’s most beloved figures is set to return to the Emirates Stadium this summer—not as a player, but as the head coach of Como 1907. Cesc Fàbregas, the Spanish midfield maestro, will lead his Italian side onto the hallowed turf on 12 August for a high-profile pre-season friendly against the Premier League champions.
A nostalgic milestone for the former Gunners captain
Fàbregas, who first donned an Arsenal shirt in 2003, made over 300 appearances for the club, captained the side, and became a fan favorite during his eight-year stint in North London. His return as an opposing manager promises an emotional moment for supporters on both sides, particularly those who witnessed his rise from prodigy to club legend.
The match kicks off at 7:30 PM UK time, marking a significant step in Como’s preparations for its debut UEFA Champions League campaign. For the Italian side, this encounter represents more than just a friendly—it’s a chance to test their mettle against one of Europe’s most formidable teams ahead of the grueling season ahead.
Arsenal and Como face off in historic first meeting
Despite Fàbregas’ deep connection to Arsenal, this will be the first competitive meeting between the two clubs. The anticipation among fans is palpable, with Como eager to gauge their progress against a team managed by Mikel Arteta, who has established Arsenal as consistent title contenders.
« The Como 1907 delegation will travel to the Emirates Stadium this summer to face Arsenal, the reigning English champions and Champions League finalists, in a pre-season friendly, » the club confirmed in an official statement. « This will be the first-ever match between Como 1907 and Arsenal, offering our players the opportunity to experience the iconic atmosphere of the Emirates Stadium. »
Como’s ambitious rise and Champions League debut
Like Arsenal, Como arrives at this fixture on the back of a remarkable season. The Lombard club secured fourth place in Serie A, leapfrogging traditional giants like AC Milan and Juventus in the process. To bolster their squad ahead of their European debut, Como splashed out €60 million to retain midfield star Nico Paz, on loan from Real Madrid.
« For the BiancoBlu, this is an excellent opportunity to test themselves against one of Europe’s strongest and most consistent sides, » the statement added. « Fans can purchase general admission tickets for the match, with further details on availability to be announced through official club channels. »
Pre-season tune-up ahead of a packed 2026-27 schedule
With Arsenal and Como both gearing up for the new season, this friendly serves as a crucial warm-up. For the Gunners, it’s a chance to fine-tune their tactics before their Premier League opener against Coventry City just nine days later. Meanwhile, Como will head into their Serie A season opener against Udinese just ten days after the Emirates clash.
As the stadium lights illuminate the pitch on 12 August, all eyes will be on Fàbregas—not just for his past glories, but for his ability to guide Como through a potential David vs. Goliath battle against an Arsenal side hungry for domestic and European success.
