De Zerbi defends Fabregas: ‘I’m sorry for how he’s been treated’

Former Sassuolo and Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi speaks out in defence of Cesc Fabregas: ‘I’m sorry for how he’s been treated, it’s the same thing I went through ten years ago.’

Como coach, Fabregas recently attracted criticism from some of the media and the fans in Italy as he complained about Milan’s 3-1 win over his team last week.

Como dominated possession and had some big chances in the game, still the Rossoneri secured a victory, prompting the Spaniard to remark sarcastically: “It ended 3-1, so you have to look at the result, that’s what they like in Italy.”

A few days later, Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri hit back, saying that it was a “lack of respect” to argue that his side only won because of luck.

Former Sassuolo and Brighton coach De Zerbi, now at Marseille, was involved in the debate during the Football Show Viva El Futbol.

“I’m not entitled to give advice to anyone. I’ve met him [Fabregas] twice, one for Italy-Norway and we spoke for just five minutes. I’m sorry for how he’s been treated,” said the Italian tactician via TMW.

“We’re in a democracy, everyone can say what they want, but when judgments go too far, and it’s said that one has been arrogant or wants to show off, I get annoyed. Those who want to talk about the results should just shut up because Como sit sixth. Where should they been? I don’t understand.

“The coach’s duty is not only to field the team, but much more. He must manage a billion things. If one has to only analyse the result, then we don’t need all these pundits.

“I don’t understand the envy towards him. I don’t think he lacks respect when he speaks. I’m seeing the same thing I went through ten years ago.”

Fabregas’ Como beat Lazio 3-0 away on Monday. The Azzurri are just five points below a Champions League spot and have a seven-point lead over 8th-placed Bologna.