Manchester United will lock horns with Como 1907 in the Champions League this week. The tie will be a historic for the Italian side and a very stiff test for the Red Devils.
Cesc Fabregas’ side have brought something fresh to Italian football. That isn’t just because of how they play but how they’re marketed and their off-field identity. It has allowed them to progress quickly, and every Champions League is pushed as a big occasion.
After failing to beat Feyenoord in their previous outing in the competition, they got back to winning ways against Fiorentina. And the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium will be very much up for it when Manchester United come to town.
The game is seen as representing a journey from playing against tiny Renate in 2020 to welcoming visitors from Old Trafford in 2026.
Tactical versatility to learn from
Until last season, Cesc Fabregas’ side were associated with a brand of football which saw players interchange positions constantly. Left-back Alex Valle would often find himself as an attacking midfielder. Defender Jacobo Ramon would be very close to the box when needed.
That identity remains the same, as Como move the ball quickly, rely on swift movements to get into the box. However, this season there has been an evolution.
This came in their win over Napoli, in which they secured a solid 2-1 win, while sitting in a low-block in the second half. This adaptability came after they dropped too many points last season despite dominating opponents outright. This was specifically true in their games against AC Milan, subsequently, Fabregas has learnt his lessons well.
This should be something Manchester United are wary of, as they have been accused of one-dimensionality this season.
From Jacobo Ramon to Martin Baturina
Como arguably don’t have big superstars in their side – barring maybe Nico Paz. But they have players who are tailor-made for how they play and the club’s tactical identity, which has improved them.
Jacobo Ramon is one, having become one of the best defenders in Serie A at just 21-years-of-age. He was key last season and has seen Trevoh Chalobah impress alongside him.
The impressive Lucas Da Cunha is also a good example of their recruitment. Now a France international, the midfielder joined when Como were in Serie B and his career wasn’t going anywhere in France. His technical ability has shined in Lombardy, with former Manchester City talent Maximo Perrone also dictating play in deep midfield.
The Argentine operates silently and effectively. So does new signing Luis Milla, who joined from Getafe and has quickly become key in midfield.
Nico Paz got his goalscoring boots back on against Fiorentina but arguably, it is Martin Baturina who has been their most important player in 2026. The Croatian has already attracted interest from England, having starred against the Three Lions at the World Cup.
He roams freely in attack, which allows him the time and space to make things tick in the final third. The 23-year-old can spot a pass effectively, has deceptive 1v1 ability and a very strong right foot.
Baturina was rested against Fiorentina, which is a sign that he should start against Manchester United.
Anas Douvikas could start too, having scored against La Viola. Como have played Nico Paz upfront this season, with Moise Kean and Assane Diao out.
Big test for Michael Carrick
A clash involving Michael Carrick and Cesc Fabregas would’ve been a treat during their playing days. But they manage against each other when their teams stand in contrast, when it comes to tactical identity.
Manchester United are struggling for one – and have been in that situation for years. Como stand for something, which sets them apart and has brought something new to Serie A.
At their best, Fabregas’ side are relentless in and out of possession. They move quickly and catch the opposition by surprise. Manchester United have struggled from a physical standpoint, which may prove to be a decisive factor this week.
Carrick’s side will have to take advantage of Como’s immaturity. This was clear against Feyenoord and the Red Devils need to prey on that.
Beyond that, it will be Manchester United’s chance of taking a closer look at several players. Multiple of them – like Baturina, Ramon, Valle and Perrone, could even directly fix some squad issues at Old Trafford.
Club stat comparison – This season and last, league only
League performance · Last season and this season
| Statistic | 2025/26 · Full season | 2026/27 · So far | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Como | Man United | Como | Man United | |
| Matches played | 38 | 38 | 7 | 7 |
| Points | 71 | 71 | 14 | 7 |
| Points per game | 1.87 | 1.87 | 2.00 | 1.00 |
| Goals scored | 65 | 69 | 12 | 10 |
| Goals scored per game | 1.71 | 1.82 | 1.71 | 1.43 |
| Goals conceded | 29 | 50 | 7 | 10 |
| Goals conceded per game | 0.76 | 1.32 | 1.00 | 1.43 |
| Key passes per game | 11.1 | 11.8 | 16.0 | 14.9 |
| Shots per game | 14.4 | 15.7 | 21.6 | 19.7 |
| Shots on target per game | 5.1 | 5.7 | 6.9 | 5.0 |
Key passes measure passes leading directly to a teammate’s shot.
The 2025/26 figures cover the full season; 2026/27 covers seven matches
per club through 18 October. Figures describe output in different leagues.
Averages rounded.
