Arsenal legend Cesc Fabregas is set for a heartfelt return to North London this summer, as his Como side will face the Gunners in a pre-season friendly at the Emirates Stadium. The former Arsenal captain will lead the Italian club into the match on August 12, with both teams using the fixture to fine-tune preparations for the upcoming 2026-27 season.

An emotional homecoming for a Gunners great

The game, scheduled for Wednesday evening with a 19:30 BST kick-off, will mark Fabregas’ first appearance at the Emirates in a managerial role. It promises to be a nostalgic occasion for the Spanish midfielder, who made his professional debut for Arsenal in 2003 and went on to spend eight memorable years with the club before moving to Barcelona. For Como, this trip is another milestone in their remarkable journey, giving them the opportunity to test themselves against one of football’s most successful clubs before their first-ever UEFA Champions League campaign.

A historic North London encounter

Despite Fabregas’ strong connections with both sides, this will be the first-ever meeting between Arsenal and Como in any competition. The announcement has generated excitement among fans of both teams, with the Italian supporters eager to see how their squad fares against Mikel Arteta’s reigning English champions.

"Como 1907 will travel to the Emirates Stadium this summer to face Arsenal, the reigning English champions and European runners-up, in a preseason friendly," the club confirmed in a statement. "The match will mark the first-ever meeting between Como 1907 and Arsenal, bringing the Lariani to the magical and iconic setting of the Emirates Stadium."

Champions League build-up for Como

Como earned their spot in Europe’s premier competition in dramatic style last season, finishing in Serie A’s top four ahead of giants AC Milan and Juventus. The club has since been investing significantly to strengthen the squad, including a €60 million commitment to retain young playmaker Nico Paz from Real Madrid.

"For the BiancoBlu, it will be an excellent opportunity to test themselves against one of Europe’s strongest and most consistent teams in preparation for a season that will see Como 1907 compete in the UEFA Champions League for the first time in the club’s history," the statement added. "Fans will be able to purchase general admission tickets for the match, with more details to be announced soon through the club’s official channels."

Looking ahead to a pivotal 2026-27 season

The timing of the friendly suits both sides perfectly — just 10 days before Como begin their Serie A campaign away to Udinese, and nine days before Arsenal start their Premier League title defence against Coventry City. The hosts will use the fixture to fine-tune their preparations for another title push, while the Emirates crowd is expected to warmly welcome Fabregas back to familiar surroundings. However, once the match begins, attention will quickly turn to whether the Spanish coach’s side can stand up to the challenge of England’s reigning champions.