Como 1907 player Roberta Picchi has received a breast cancer diagnosis ahead of the Italian club’s historic debut in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, prompting a public show of support from coach Cesc Fàbregas. The 34-year-old player faces treatment following the diagnosis, leading the club to extend her contract through 2028 to allow her to focus entirely on her recovery.
Cesc Fàbregas and Como 1907 Rally Around Roberta Picchi
Coach Cesc Fàbregas addressed the diagnosis publicly, offering emotional remarks regarding the player’s health battle.
Cesc Fàbregas said he wishes Picchi all the best and that the team stands by her side no matter what happens. He emphasized that they are a family and stand firmly together, adding that they embrace her and will be by her side throughout her journey.
The timing of the diagnosis coincides with a significant milestone for the club. Como 1907 is scheduled to host German side RB Leipzig on Thursday for the team’s first-ever match in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Contract Extension Supports Recovery
Como 1907 updated Picchi’s playing contract, extending her stay with the club until 2028. According to reports from the dpa news channel, this extension ensures the athlete can prioritize medical care without worrying about her professional status.
Picchi shared her perspective on the diagnosis via social media.
UEFA Women’s Champions League Context
The medical news impacts the Como squad just as the club enters the group stages of Europe’s premier club competition. RB Leipzig travels to Italy for the Thursday fixture, facing a Como side galvanized by the off-pitch challenge confronting their teammate. While the club focuses on the athletic demands of the tournament opener, the leadership and players have maintained that supporting Picchi’s recovery remains the primary priority for the organization.
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