Como director Carlalberto Ludi takes an aggressive approach to the Roma game, but insists they are ‘proud’ that Moise Kean played for Italy and have an ‘excellent’ rapport with Azzurri staff.
It kicks off at the Stadio Sinigaglia at 11.30 UK time (12.30 CEST).
There are three points separating these teams going into the match, largely because Como suffered a surprising 2-0 defeat to Frosinone ahead of the long break for international duty.
Coaches Cesc Fabregas and Gian Piero Gasperini share a sensibility, albeit a slightly different tactical approach.
Como discuss Italy controversy
SASSUOLO, ITALY – APRIL 17: Carlalberto Ludi, Sporting Director of Como 1907 looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Como 1907 at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on April 17, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“Our focus is on having quality and possession, dominating the game,” Ludi told DAZN Italia.
“Maxence Caqueret has this role today, although Martin Baturina has those qualities too. We want to play well and take the game to a strong side like Roma.”
These are two very attacking teams who took the Champions League qualification places away from more prestigious clubs like Juventus and Milan last season.
“I expect a very interesting clash between two good teams and an important advert for Serie A. Hopefully we can also make the fans here very happy.”
Moise Kean playing for Italy against France in the Nations League (@azzurri)
There was controversy over the last couple of days, as coach Cesc Fabregas hit out angrily at the Italy medical staff, suggesting they played Kean in the Nations League even when he was carrying an injury.
This is why the striker is ruled out of today’s encounter and might miss the next couple of competitive fixtures too.
“Our rapport with the Nazionale is excellent, but naturally any club won’t be happy when a player returns with a small injury,” insisted Ludi.
COMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 14: Cesc Fabregas, Manager of Como 1907, looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Parma Calcio at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on September 14, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We are proud to have a player representing Italy, and that goes for all our internationals. In football, people tend to see only total alignment or conflict, but that is rarely the truth of a situation.
“We’re very honoured to represent Italy and we’re sad that we cannot count on Kean today, but the rapport remains good.”