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Como FC: The Unexpected Powerhouse Captivating Italy's Soccer LandscapeGeorge Clooney's villa, a mere 20-minute drive from Como's stadium, has long been a beacon for celebrity sightings and high-profile events on Italy's famous Lake Como. But in recent years, the region has gained a new source of intrigue – the rapid rise of the local soccer team, Como FC, as it makes a triumphant return to the top division after more than two decades.

Transforming a Sleeping Giant: Como FC's Remarkable Resurgence

A New Era of Ambition and Investment

Five years ago, Indonesian tobacco billionaire brothers Roberto Budi Hartono and Michael Bambang Hartono purchased the club when it was languishing in Serie D, the fourth tier of Italian soccer. Their heavy investment has since transformed Como FC into a force to be reckoned with, attracting a mix of well-known veteran players and promising young talents.

Assembling a Star-Studded Roster

The influx of foreign investment has allowed Como FC to assemble a roster that reads like a who's who of European soccer. Former Liverpool and Napoli goalkeeper Pepe Reina, ex-Barcelona captain Sergi Roberto, and former France and Real Madrid center-back Raphael Varane have all joined the club, adding a wealth of experience and pedigree. The team has also secured the services of Alberto Moreno, a 32-year-old left-back who has played every minute of the opening six Serie A matches, and Nico Paz, a 20-year-old attacking midfielder signed from Real Madrid.

Embracing a Unique Blend of Talent

The mix of seasoned veterans and rising prospects has created a dynamic and unpredictable squad. Alongside the foreign stars, Como FC has also integrated local talent, such as striker Patrick Cutrone, who is currently tied atop the league's scoring chart with four goals in six games. This blend of experience and youthful exuberance has made Como FC a revelation in the current Serie A season, with the team already holding its own against established Champions League contenders.

Capturing the Imagination of Fans and Experts

The team's rapid progress has not gone unnoticed, with Napoli coach Antonio Conte hailing Como FC as the "revelation of the season" ahead of their upcoming clash. The club's recent performances, which have included holding Champions League side Bologna to a 2-2 draw, winning at Champions League side Atalanta 3-2, and beating Hellas Verona 3-2, have captured the imagination of fans and experts alike.

Embracing a New Identity as a Soccer Tourism Destination

The Hartono brothers' vision for Como FC extends beyond just on-field success. They are actively collaborating with Lake Como Tourism to position the club as a premier soccer tourism destination, with 40% of the team's tickets already being purchased by foreign fans. The club has also made efforts to balance the needs of its most devoted local supporters, ensuring that ticket prices have not increased from the previous season.

The Cesc Fabregas Factor: A Player-Coach Duo with a Storied Past

At the heart of Como FC's success is the presence of Cesc Fabregas, the club's coach and a minority owner. Fabregas, a World Cup winner and former Arsenal and Chelsea star, will have the opportunity to reunite with one of his former mentors, Napoli coach Antonio Conte, when the two teams face off. The duo's shared history, which includes winning the Premier League and FA Cup together at Chelsea, adds an intriguing subplot to the upcoming match.As Como FC continues to defy expectations and captivate audiences across Italy, the club's remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of ambition, investment, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With its star-studded roster, innovative approach to fan engagement, and the leadership of Cesc Fabregas, this once-sleeping giant is poised to rewrite the narrative of Italian soccer, one thrilling match at a time.