Serena: “Inter has more to lose against Como, Fabregas is the soul of the project”

Aldo Serena, interviewed by the Corriere della Sera, looks at the clash between Inter and Como from an unusual perspective: that of someone who has worn both jerseys. Before analyzing tomorrow’s match, the former player recalls the season spent on the lakeside in 1979, which ended with promotion to Serie A. “It was a wonderful year,” he says, mentioning teammates like Piero Volpi, Villiam Vecchi, and Pietro Vierchowod.

Between the Como of then and the current one, Serena identifies a common thread: “It was a provincial club that spent wisely. I see a trait in common with the current club, namely the ingenuity of focusing on the most suitable people.” Even on the bench, the parallel holds up in his opinion: just as Pippo Marchioro brought innovative ideas, Cesc Fabregas “not only has a vision but also the ability to transmit it and make his players assimilate it in the best way.” For Serena, the Spanish coach is “the soul of the Como project.”

On tomorrow’s match at San Siro, his analysis is clear regarding the responsibilities on the field. “Inter must play with the same humility and cohesion shown in Rotterdam, only in this way can they limit the whirlwind of passes with which Como can dazzle you,” he says. And on Inter’s historic unbeaten record against the Larians, he adds: “It means nothing.” According to Serena, after the 9-1, Fabregas deliberately toned things down to keep the group focused: “He wants to keep a low profile to get a result at San Siro as well.”

The player to watch, according to the former player, is Douvikas: “He cost little and can do everything.” As for Cristian Chivu, knowing that Fabregas was Inter’s first choice, Serena sees no problems: “He won’t be disturbed or annoyed.”

Who is most at risk, in the end, is clear: “Inter after the defeat in the derby and the discontent of the fans. Como is already performing miracles.” On the possible inclusion of the Larians in the title race in case of victory, Serena is cautious: “Since this summer I haven’t considered Como as an outsider. But will they be able to handle the double commitment?”