Several high-profile stars have been left out of European squad lists following key deadline decisions. From Liverpool's Federico Chiesa and Real Madrid's Ferland Mendy to Borussia Dortmund captain Emre Can, managers across the continent faced tough selection calls due to injuries and squad limits.
Como 1907 president Mirwan Suwarso has announced he will step aside to allow the club's longest-serving supporters to witness their European bow. The chief executive and several high-ranking board members are relinquishing their VIP tickets for the upcoming clash against RB Leipzig, ensuring that those who have supported the Lariani through the lowest depths of Italian football can now enjoy the ultimate high.
Alvaro Morata has insisted he is not closing the door on his international career after missing Spain's triumphant 2026 World Cup campaign. The veteran forward admitted that fierce competition in attack makes a recall difficult but reflected warmly on watching his former team-mates lift the trophy following a candid phone call from Luis de la Fuente.
The road to Madrid begins this week as the league phase gets under way - but which teams are currently looking in the best shape to go on and lift the European Cup?
Italian side Como 1907 have displayed remarkable solidarity by extending striker Roberta Picchi's contract until 2028 following her breast cancer diagnosis. The 34-year-old forward is preparing to begin immediate medical treatment, with the Serie A outfit guaranteeing full institutional backing to ensure her professional future remains completely secure.
Como will host their historic Champions League debut at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia after UEFA approved the venue following a rapid 90-day redevelopment. The green light spares Cesc Fabregas' side a relocation to Reggio Emilia, ensuring RB Leipzig visit the shores of Lake Como.
Cesc Fabregas praised his Como side's mental strength as they recovered from an early setback to secure a resounding 4-1 victory over Genoa in Serie A. The Spanish head coach highlighted his team's unwavering commitment to their tactical identity ahead of a historic Champions League debut.
Italy manager Roberto Mancini has heaped praise on Cesc Fabregas following Como's remarkable progression into the Champions League. The veteran coach highlighted the team's attacking mentality and their recent focus on signing homegrown talent as a major boost for the national side.
Cesc Fabregas has been officially named the Serie A Coach of the Year for the 2025-26 season following a historic campaign with Como. The former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder received the prestigious honour at the Gran Gala del Calcio AIC after guiding the ambitious club into the Champions League.
Lionel Scaloni has reportedly identified Nico Paz as the heir to Lionel Messi's iconic No. 10 jersey following the legend's retirement from international football. The 21-year-old playmaker is poised to inherit the historic shirt ahead of established senior stars if the World Cup-winning manager signs a contract extension through to 2030.
Indonesian international goalkeeper Emil Audero has sealed a deadline-day loan move to Rayo Vallecano from Como for the remainder of the season. The 29-year-old shot-stopper arrives in the Spanish capital to replace the injured Augusto Batalla, having found his opportunities limited in Serie A following the Italian side's signing of Robert Sanchez.
Cesc Fabregas has successfully lured Robert Sanchez away from Stamford Bridge, with the Spanish goalkeeper joining Como on a season-long loan. The move ends a difficult period for the shot-stopper in West London following the arrival of Emiliano Martinez.
Cesc Fabregas is reportedly eyeing a second major raid on Chelsea this summer as Como explore a late move for out-of-favor goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. The Spanish shot-stopper has been ruthlessly sidelined at Stamford Bridge following the arrival of World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez.
Cesc Fabregas has delivered a significant transfer ultimatum to the Como hierarchy just days before the summer window closes, despite leading his side to a historic 2-1 victory over Napoli. The Spanish tactician is demanding attacking reinforcements to ensure his squad can handle the dual demands of domestic football and their upcoming Champions League debut.
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