Como head coach Cesc Fàbregas has expressed his excitement ahead of his side’s historic UEFA Champions League encounter against Manchester United.

Como kicked off their maiden Champions League campaign in impressive fashion with a 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig, followed by a narrow 3-2 defeat to Feyenoord as Fàbregas attempts the ambitious task of guiding the club into the knockout rounds.

Having never featured in European competition in their 119-year history, Como are not only hosting their first-ever Champions League home match but are also squaring off against English opposition for the first time.

Speaking ahead of the fixture, Fàbregas admitted he is relishing the magnitude of the test.

“It’s a great match against one of the best and biggest teams in history,” Fàbregas stated. “It’s a match to dream about, but we must try to do our best to try to win and pick up the three points.

“We slowly have to understand what it’s like to face the top sides, when you know that they’re better than you, but you still have to compete with what you have.

“Our inner strength and our mentality are what must make us strong and allow us to believe that we can do it.”

Reflecting on the club’s meteoric rise, the Spanish tactician emphasized the patience and stability required to build a competitive side.

“We slowly formed a stable, solid team that could grow in Serie A, which is a very competitive league,” Fàbregas noted.

“We have a very tough path to qualify for the next stage, and for us it’s a pleasure to be here competing.”

Meanwhile, Manchester United head into the fixture looking to navigate a tricky test under Michael Carrick, despite traditionally boasting a strong historical record against Italian opposition.

For more updates, follow our Champions League fixtures, results and latest UCL news.