Como draw 0-0 with Atalanta despite 79% possession; Fàbregas defends identity

Como, managed by Cesc Fàbregas, drew 0-0 at home with Atalanta on Sunday despite holding 79% of possession and attempting 28 shots, a match in which Opta put Como on 5.24 expected goals — the second-highest xG recorded in a shut-out since the company began tracking such data 15 years ago.

The game was shaped early by an eighth-minute red card for Atalanta’s Honest Ahanor, after an off-the-ball exchange with Máximo Perrone, and Atalanta removed centre-forward Gianluca Scamacca within 10 minutes as they prepared to retreat into a low block. Como continued to dominate the ball and territory but were repeatedly denied by Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi.

Fàbregas has repeatedly defended Como’s insistence on a front-footed style and a clear identity. After a recent defeat to Milan he said he had won under many different managers and that the club’s ownership asked him to create “a front-footed play-style” and an identity for players who want to come and play in Como.

The squad’s technical profile is evident: Nico Paz has eight goals and six assists this season and drew much attention, while Máximo Perrone (23) and Lucas Da Cunha (24) have formed a consistent midfield pairing, Jacobo Ramón (21) is praised as an exceptional distributor from defence, and Martin Baturina (22) had three goals and three assists in his previous four games.

como 0-0 atalanta, cesc fàbregas, 79% possession como, 5.24 xg shutout, marco carnesecchi saves, nico paz penalty miss, honest ahanor red card, máximo perrone, lucas da cunha, martin baturina form, front-footed play style, como transfer spending