Cesc Fabregas insisted Como must show a "desire to score and be proactive" against Hellas Verona, warning "it will not be easy" against their relegated opponents.

Como head into matchday 36 occupying sixth place in the Serie A table, just three points behind fourth-place Juventus.

The Lariani have endured a dip in form in recent weeks, winning just one of their last five games, but remain well in the hunt to secure European football next season.

Como will be favourites to take all three points at Verona, though Fabregas is wary, with Paolo Sammarco's side having held Juve to a 1-1 draw last weekend.

"There is dignity. Nobody wants to lose games," the Como head coach told reporters during his pre-match press conference. "You might be sad and disappointed because you got relegated, but nobody gives anything away.

"They launched counterattacks while playing with a low block against Juventus, then defended for the rest of the game. We must be prepared for a similar match.

"Today, the most difficult thing is to score against a low block. We must have the desire to score, be proactive, and not go onto the field thinking it will be easy."

Despite their impressive season, Como have drawn criticism from some quarters for the lack of playing time given to homegrown players.

However, Fabregas revealed 16-year-old midfielder Riccardo Cassano, who has impressed with the club's under-17 side, may be included in their travelling party this weekend.

"I can't say he's ready, but he understands the type of football we want to play here," the Como boss explained. "I'm really happy. When we use all these players, it seems we create value. If possible, Cassano will come with us.

"He already trained with us last week, and I really liked it. He gave me great satisfaction. If I can take him with us, I'll do it. So many young players train with us during the week, but when we see a player who stands out, we are open."

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Hellas Verona – Kieron Bowie

Bowie – a January signing from Hibernian – has scored three times since his move.

The Scotsman has scored both of Verona's goals in their last seven Serie A games, including the opener in last weekend's draw with Juventus.

Como – Nico Paz

Paz has scored four goals in seven Serie A away appearances in 2026, one more than he managed in his first 27 away games in the competition.

Among players with 10 or more goals in Europe's top five leagues this season, nobody has scored more goals from distance than the Como player (five, level with Kylian Mbappe).

MATCH PREDICTION – COMO WIN

Verona have not won any of their last eight Serie A matches against Como (D5 L3), last tasting victory back in December 1986.

Unbeaten in their last three Serie A away meetings, after picking up just one point in their first four away games against them, Como are looking to complete their first double over Verona in the Italian top flight.

Como have conceded just 28 goals in Serie A this season, the best defensive record in the competition.

Only Arsenal (26) and Paris Saint-Germain (27) have let in fewer goals in Europe's top five leagues.

OPTA WIN PROBABILITY

Hellas Verona – 14.6%

Draw – 20.9%

Como – 64.5%