Former Arsenal and Chelsea star Cesc Fabregas clashed with Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini over the weekend following his Como side’s victory.
Fabregas is currently one of the highest-rated young managers in European football, having taken over as Como boss in July 2024.
He has taken them to fourth in Serie A, as they hunt qualification for the Champions League next season for the first time in the club’s history.
A 2-1 victory over Roma on Sunday boosted their chances of that happening, but didn’t come without controversy. According to Fabregas, his opposing number refused to shake his hand, with the Spaniard making it known in his comments post-match.
He said: ‘Whether I’m angry, sent off, or feel the referee has wronged me, at the end of the match I always go to shake my opponent’s hand.
‘It’s a matter of respect and sportsmanship, and I was disappointed by what happened. I repeat, even when you lose a game, you always shake the opponent’s hand.
Former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas was involved in a heated spat after Como’s win over Roma
Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini (right) criticised his opponents’ conduct in the match
‘I went to greet him as usual, and I saw him walk away. I come from a different country, and I have to get used to these things: during the game, everything is fine and you fight, but when the match ends, for me it’s over, and you always shake hands.’
Gasperini, however, who has also coached the likes of Inter Milan and Atalanta in his career, explained his reasoning – and wasn’t best pleased with his opponents.
The 68-year-old said: ‘Como is a strong team, but I don’t respect their behavior, on the pitch or on the bench.’
Anger appeared to rise from when Roma defender Wesley was sent off just after the hour mark for a second yellow card, with Gasperini seemingly suggesting Fabregas and his staff had encouraged the referee to give the yellow card in what was an argument over simulation.
