Como 1907 has secured promotion to Serie A, Italy’s top football division, after a stunning final match day in Serie B, marking their return to the elite level after twenty-one years. Gennaro Tutino’s goal gave Cosenza the lead at halftime, but Simone Verdi equalized for Como with a penalty, securing the crucial point needed for promotion. This was enough as third-place Venezia suffered defeat, allowing Como to clinch automatic promotion to Serie A.
The historic achievement for Como comes after a remarkable rise from bankruptcy, attributed to the efforts of the Djarum Group and strategic appointments of key figures like former CEO Dennis Wise, coach Osian Roberts, and minor shareholders Thierry Henry and Cesc Fabregas. The likes of Henry and Gianluca Zambrotta, along with Jamie Vardie, graced the event to witness Como’s success and celebrate their return to Serie A after a prolonged absence.
By finishing second in Serie B, Como secured automatic promotion alongside Parma, leaving other teams like Venezia, Cremonese, and Palermo to compete in the PlayOffs for the final spot in Serie A. Roberts, the Welsh coach, became the first from his country to guide a team to promotion from Serie B to Serie A. Como’s journey involves a significant turnaround, with the Indonesian-owned Djarum Group taking control in 2019 when the club was in Serie D, the fourth division of Italian football.
The final match day of Serie B saw Como leading Venezia by two points, giving them room for a loss if Venezia failed to secure a win. While Venezia took an early lead, Spezia’s comeback with two second-half goals dashed their hopes, solidifying Como’s promotion with a draw against Cosenza. Fabregas, who transitioned from player to coach within the club, played a crucial role in Como’s success, leading them to Serie A after a series of strategic decisions and collective efforts.
Como’s return to Serie A has ignited celebrations among the club and its fans, with a post on social media symbolically declaring their comeback in their local dialect. The club’s presence in Serie A alongside other Lombardia clubs like AC Milan, Inter Milan, Atalanta, and Monza highlights their achievement and ambition. Verdi expressed optimism for the future, noting the club’s strong mentality and aspirations for the upcoming season in Serie A, marking a new chapter in Como’s football history.
