Overview
Como 1907, commonly referred to as Como, is an Italian professional football club with a history stretching back over a century. Established in 1907, the club represents the city of Como, situated in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, on the picturesque shores of Lake Como. Following a period of significant investment and strategic development, the club secured promotion to Serie A, Italy's premier football division, for the 2024–25 season, marking a return to the top flight after more than two decades (Soccerway).
Identity
The club's traditional colours are blue and white, reflecting the serene waters of Lake Como and the surrounding alpine environment. The club crest typically features elements evoking the city's heritage, often incorporating a representation of the lake or local landmarks. The team is affectionately known as I Lariani, a reference to Lake Lario, another name for Lake Como. This identity is deeply intertwined with the local community, fostering a strong regional following and a sense of shared heritage between the club and its supporters.
Ownership
Since 2019, Como 1907 has been owned by Djarum Group, an Indonesian tobacco and diversified conglomerate, through its subsidiary SENT Entertainment Ltd. This ownership has been instrumental in the club's recent resurgence, providing financial stability and investment in infrastructure, youth development, and player acquisitions. Key figures associated with the ownership include former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fàbregas, who transitioned from player to assistant manager and later head coach, and Dennis Wise, serving as CEO (Transfermarkt).
Current League Position
For the 2024–25 season, Como 1907 competes in Serie A, having achieved automatic promotion by finishing second in Serie B during the 2023–24 campaign (Soccerway). This promotion represents a significant milestone, returning the club to the top tier of Italian football for the first time since the 2002–03 season. The club aims to establish itself in Serie A while continuing its long-term project of sustainable growth and community engagement.
History
Founding (1907) and Early Years
Associazione Calcio Como was founded on 25 May 1907. In its nascent years, the club primarily competed in regional Lombardy championships. Como's early competitive history saw it fluctuate between various divisions, establishing itself as a consistent presence in Italian football's lower tiers before making its first significant impact in the national leagues.
Post-War Ascensions and Serie A Debuts
The post-World War II era brought a period of growth for Como. The club achieved its first promotion to Serie A for the 1949–50 season, competing among Italy's elite for several seasons (Wikipedia). This era was characterized by a resilient team spirit and the emergence of local talent. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Como frequently moved between Serie A and Serie B, establishing a reputation as a competitive side, albeit one that struggled to maintain a consistent presence at the very top. Notable periods included promotions in 1974–75 and 1983–84, leading to further stints in Serie A during the mid-1970s and late 1980s.
Financial Difficulties and Rebirth (2000s-2010s)
The turn of the millennium brought severe financial difficulties for Como. Following a brief return to Serie A in the 2002–03 season, the club faced significant challenges, eventually leading to its declaration of bankruptcy in 2004 (Soccerway). The club was refounded as Calcio Como, starting again from Serie D. This period was marked by several promotions and subsequent relegations, reflecting the struggle to rebuild a stable foundation. Another bankruptcy in 2017 saw the club reformed as Como 1907, starting once more from Serie D (Wikipedia). This period of adversity forged a strong bond between the club and its loyal fanbase, who supported the team through its lowest points.
The Djarum Group Era and Serie A Return (2019-Present)
The most recent and transformative chapter began in 2019 with the acquisition of Como 1907 by the Indonesian Djarum Group. This ownership brought significant investment and a long-term vision. Under this new stewardship, the club ascended from Serie C to Serie B, culminating in a remarkable 2023–24 season where they secured automatic promotion to Serie A by finishing second (Soccerway). The appointment of figures like Dennis Wise and the strategic involvement of Cesc Fàbregas, initially as a player and then as a coach, have been pivotal in this renaissance, injecting both footballing acumen and international recognition into the club's operations.
Honours & trophies
While Como 1907 may not boast an extensive trophy cabinet compared to some of Italy's most decorated clubs, its honours reflect periods of dominance in the lower divisions and a consistent ability to challenge for promotion. The club's recent resurgence has added to its list of achievements, particularly in securing its return to Serie A.
Domestic
Como 1907 has primarily achieved its successes in Italy's second and third tiers, demonstrating its strength outside of the very top flight.
| Competition | Wins | Years Won |
|---|---|---|
| Serie B | 3 | 1948–49, 1974–75, 1983–84 |
| Serie C / Lega Pro Prima Divisione | 1 | 2020–21 (Group A) |
| Coppa Italia Serie C | 1 | 1996–97 |
Other Notable Achievements
- Serie B Promotion: In addition to the titles, Como has secured multiple promotions to Serie A through second-place finishes, most recently in the 2023–24 season (Soccerway).
- Serie D Titles: The club has also won several Serie D titles during its periods of rebuilding following financial difficulties, showcasing its resilience and ability to bounce back from lower divisions.
Home stadium
Como 1907 plays its home matches at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, a historic venue located on the western shore of Lake Como. The stadium is named after Giuseppe Sinigaglia, a local athlete and war hero. Inaugurated in 1927, the Stadio Sinigaglia is renowned for its unique and scenic location, offering views of the lake and surrounding mountains (Wikipedia). This picturesque setting makes it one of Italy's most distinctive football grounds.
The stadium has undergone several renovations over the decades to meet modern footballing standards. Its current official capacity is 13,602 spectators (Transfermarkt). Despite its relatively modest size compared to larger Serie A stadiums, the Stadio Sinigaglia provides an intimate atmosphere, with the stands close to the pitch, creating a strong connection between the players and the passionate Como supporters. Recent promotion to Serie A has spurred further discussions and plans for potential upgrades to ensure the facility continues to meet top-flight requirements and enhance the matchday experience for fans.
Notable players
Throughout its history, Como 1907 has been home to a variety of talented players, from local heroes to international stars. These individuals have left an indelible mark on the club's legacy, contributing to its successes and identity. Below are some of the most notable figures:
- Pietro Vierchowod: A legendary Italian defender, Vierchowod began his professional career at Como in the late 1970s. Known for his strength and tactical intelligence, he later became a Serie A icon and a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982 (Wikipedia).
- Marco Tardelli: Another World Cup winner, Tardelli played for Como in the mid-1970s. His time at the club was foundational before he moved on to achieve great success with Juventus and the Italian national team. He was a dynamic midfielder celebrated for his passionate style of play.
- Alessandro Costacurta: A central figure in AC Milan's dominant teams of the 1990s, Costacurta also started his journey at Como. His defensive prowess and leadership qualities were evident early in his career before he became one of Italy's most decorated defenders.
- Gianluca Zambrotta: A World Cup winner in 2006, Zambrotta played for Como in the mid-1990s before his illustrious career at Juventus, Barcelona, and AC Milan. He was a versatile full-back known for his attacking contributions and defensive solidity.
- Daniel Fonseca: The Uruguayan forward was a prominent figure for Como in the early 1990s, showcasing his goal-scoring ability before moving to clubs like Napoli, Roma, and Juventus in Serie A.
- Simone Scuffet: The goalkeeper has been a crucial part of Como's recent success, providing a reliable presence between the posts during their promotion campaigns from Serie B to Serie A. His experience and shot-stopping have been vital.
- Patrick Cutrone: A product of AC Milan's academy, Cutrone joined Como and has been a key attacking player in their recent ascent. His goalscoring ability and work rate have made him a fan favourite and a vital component of the team's forward line.
- Cesc Fàbregas: The former Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea midfielder joined Como as a player in 2022, bringing immense experience and technical quality. He transitioned into a coaching role, becoming assistant manager and then head coach, playing a pivotal part in the club's strategic direction and promotion (Transfermarkt).
Rivalries
Due to its geographical location in northern Italy and its history in various leagues, Como 1907 has developed several regional rivalries over the years. These matches are often characterized by heightened local passion and intense competition.
Derby del Lario
The primary and most historically significant rivalry for Como is the Derby del Lario against Calcio Lecco 1912. This derby is named after Lake Lario (Lake Como), as both clubs are situated on its shores. The proximity of the two cities, combined with their shared regional identity, fuels a fierce local competition whenever they meet. Matches between Como and Lecco are often charged with emotion, reflecting the pride of their respective communities. Although the clubs have often found themselves in different divisions, any encounter is a major event for both sets of fans.
Other Regional Rivals
Como also holds rivalries with other Lombardy-based clubs, especially those they have frequently encountered in Serie B and Serie C. These include clubs like Varese and more broadly, teams from larger Lombard cities such as Atalanta or Brescia Calcio, though the intensity varies. While not as historically defined as the rivalry with Lecco, matches against these regional opponents often carry extra weight, as they involve competition for regional supremacy and bragging rights within Lombardy football.
Why Como 1907 matters in football
Como 1907's significance in football extends beyond its on-field results, embodying a compelling narrative of resilience, community spirit, and the transformative power of strategic investment. The club's journey from multiple bankruptcies and restarts in the lower divisions to a dramatic return to Serie A within half a decade serves as a modern blueprint for club reconstruction and sustainable growth. It demonstrates that with clear vision and dedicated backing, even clubs with a challenging past can reclaim their place among the elite.
Furthermore, Como's unique ownership model, involving figures like Dennis Wise and Cesc Fàbregas, injects international experience and footballing intelligence directly into the club's administration and coaching structure. This blend of local identity and global expertise creates a distinctive club culture. Its picturesque lakeside stadium and deep connection to the local community also highlight the charm of regional Italian football, reminding enthusiasts that the heart of the game often lies in passionate local rivalries and the enduring loyalty of its supporters.
"Como's ascent is not just a tale of financial muscle; it's a testament to belief, smart management, and the unwavering spirit of a town that refused to let its club fade away. They've shown that even in modern football, romance can still find a way."
— Football Italia journalist, 2024