Style and Substance: Como are More Than Just a Hot Spot for Celebrities

ROME — With breathtaking views of the Alps and a backdrop that has become synonymous with celebrity sightings and weddings, Lake Como is not just a picturesque destination but emerging as a hotspot for soccer too. As the local soccer team, Como, makes waves in Italy’s Serie A, it’s redefining its identity beyond mere tourism. The club’s newfound success comes not just from its stunning locale but from a proactive approach to building a competitive team with a unique blend of veteran talent and emerging stars.

The vibrancy of Como transcends its scenic views, now capturing the world of soccer.

A Flourishing Club with High Aspirations

Since its ownership transitioned to Indonesian billionaires Roberto Budi Hartono and Michael Bambang Hartono five years ago, Como has risen through the ranks from Serie D to its current top-flight status. Incredibly, both local and international soccer celebrities have gravitated towards the club’s ambitious project; these include Como’s coach, Cesc Fabregas, and former France striker Thierry Henry, both of whom were instrumental players during their careers.

“Investing exclusively in soccer comes with unpredictable risks,” remarked Mirwan Suwarso, managing Como for the Hartonos. “Here we’re relying on a brand: We want to make this the top soccer tourism destination in the world.” As Como embraces its dual identity of both tourist attraction and competitive sports team, it’s no wonder that investment prosperity has flourished.

Como’s approach has also included the signing of prominent players like former Liverpool and Napoli goalkeeper Pepe Reina and ex-Barcelona captain Sergi Roberto. This strategy allows for an exciting mix of experience and youth, which is not often seen in freshly promoted clubs.

A Distinguished Line-Up

Combining seasoned veterans with youth, Como boasts talent that was once thought impossible for a club of its stature. The likes of Raphael Varane, who decided to retire but plans to stay with the club, and Patrick Cutrone, who is already among the league’s top scorers, have added to the club’s reputation. Cutrone expressed high aspirations but emphasized realism: “The ambitions are high, but the first objective remains avoiding relegation. Then we’ll see about the rest.”

The dynamic playstyle of Como’s players is captivating fans nationwide.

Challenges and Triumphs

Como’s climbing trajectory hasn’t come without its challenges. The team has held its own against established opponents, maintaining an impressive unbeaten streak against Champions League contenders like Bologna and Atalanta. As they endeavor to strengthen their position in the upper half of the Serie A table, the broader community around Lake Como is also reaping the benefits.

A noteworthy 40% of Como’s ticket sales come from foreign visitors, reinforcing the idea that there is significant interest in this idyllic area from soccer enthusiasts and tourists alike. The club is working closely with Lake Como Tourism to maximize this interest, simultaneously rewarding loyal local fans by keeping ticket prices steady from last season.

Looking Ahead: A Special Reunion

As the team prepares to face notable rivals in the league, Fabregas’s perspective is one of excitement mixed with nostalgia. He reflects on his time under coach Antonio Conte at Chelsea, hinting at a friendly rivalry as he prepares to meet a mentor on the field again. Fabregas recalls how Conte encouraged him to strive harder when he faced uncertainty over his place in the squad, shaping him into the relentless competitor he is today.

Conte’s confidence in Fabregas hasn’t gone unnoticed, and he continues to acknowledge the midfielder’s potential to contribute in a coaching capacity as well. “I always thought he could be a coach. He was curious and was always trying to learn,” remarked Conte.

Como’s journey is still unfolding. As they bask in their early successes, both on and off the pitch, the future holds limitless possibilities for this ambitious club that balances high-performance soccer with a breathtaking backdrop. Looking forward, the vision is clear: to blend luxury, sport, and breathtaking surroundings into an unparalleled experience for fans and tourists alike.

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