Fabregas speaks out after touchline incident as Allegri sent off in Milan draw
Como manager Cesc Fabregas has apologised after becoming embroiled in a heated touchline moment during his side’s 1-1 Serie A draw with AC Milan at the San Siro on Wednesday.
The former Spain international admitted he acted improperly after appearing to make contact with Milan defender Alexis Saelemaekers late in the match — an incident that ultimately led to Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri being shown a red card.
How the Incident Unfolded
With around 12 minutes remaining, Saelemaekers miscontrolled the ball near the sideline directly in front of the Como technical area. Television footage showed Fabregas extending his arm toward the Milan player as the ball ran loose, prompting an immediate protest from Saelemaekers.
The brief exchange quickly escalated into a confrontation between the benches. While Fabregas avoided disciplinary action, Allegri was dismissed by the referee during the ensuing dispute.
Read also: Coutinho speaks out after shock Vasco departure
Italian media reports, cited by The Sun, said Allegri directed an angry remark at his counterpart, telling him: “You are a child… you are an idiot! A child who became a coach yesterday.”
ESPN reported that Allegri, still frustrated shortly afterward, told journalists: "Next time someone is on the line, I'll also go on the pitch and make a tackle."
Allegri Strikes a Softer Tone
However, Allegri’s tone shifted during his formal post-match press conference. Speaking to reporters, he said: "When you are on the pitch you have to be respectful towards your rivals and referees. He is a very young coach, he's just getting started. He is doing well. I hope he wins a lot in his career and has all the capability to do so. A young coach like him need experience, with experience you improve, you mature."
Fabregas, who is in the early stages of his managerial career after retiring from playing in 2023, accepted responsibility for his actions.
Read also: The highest-paid English footballers in world football
“I apologise, it was just a little touch and Allegri’s response was exaggerated, but I admit I shouldn’t have done it," he said.
"It was unsporting behaviour, as Cristian Chivu said the other day, we’ve got to keep our hands to ourselves, especially if you are a coach.
“I would’ve got angry too, so I can only apologise and say I hope it never happens again in my career.”
Match and Table Implications
The result prevented Milan from gaining ground in the Serie A title race, with the club still trailing league leaders Inter. For promoted Como, currently sitting sixth, the draw continues an impressive campaign under Fabregas as they push for a potential European place.
Read also: Why Fabregas belongs on Europe’s top shortlists
While the touchline exchange briefly overshadowed the football, both managers appeared eager to move on quickly — with Fabregas acknowledging that maintaining composure is part of learning the job at the top level.
Sources: The Sun, ESPN
Read also: Trump hails USA hockey heroes after golden overtime win in Milan
