Historic European Qualification for Como Amidst Serie A's Dramatic Conclusion and Fan Turmoil
May 25, 2026
Como qualified for European football for the first time in their 119-year history, sealing a historic rise from Serie B to Europe after a 4-1 win over Cremonese on the final day, helped by Milan’s defeat and Roma’s win elsewhere.
In a post-match huddle at Stadio Giovanni Zini, Fabregas praised his young squad and signaled that this group could be the best he ever coaches as Como celebrated their breakthrough season.
Como also reached the Coppa Italia semi-finals for the first time, underscoring a remarkable two-year ascent from the second tier to continental competition.
The final day was clouded by fan violence and safety concerns, including delays and clashes that affected the mood and some outcomes.
Juventus finished sixth after a 2-2 draw with Torino in a derby delayed by more than an hour due to public-safety concerns following fan clashes.
Juventus will play in the Europa League next season despite missing a top-four spot, after early lead by Vlahovic could not be converted in the derby draw.
The Turin derby was interrupted by crowd trouble outside the stadium, with Juventus leading 1-0 at halftime before Torino rallied late.
Juventus’ failure to reach the Champions League may prompt significant changes at the club after a season of managerial turnover.
Como spent around €127 million on new signings during 2025-26, placing them behind only a few clubs in transfer outlay among Serie A teams.
Napoli finished second after beating Udinese, with Antonio Conte linked to potential future moves; Napoli’s owner rejected a $2 billion takeover bid from Underdog Global Partners.
Conte’s potential move to the national team circulated amid Napoli’s strong finish, as the ownership saga around the club continued.
Cremonese ended the season with discipline issues, finishing with multiple red cards and eight men on the pitch in the final ten minutes.
Summary based on 19 sources
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Sources

AP News • May 24, 2026
Cesc Fàbregas leads Como to Champions League spot. Milan and Juventus miss out | AP News
Outlook India • May 24, 2026
Cremonese 1-4 Como, Serie A: AC Milan, Juventus Miss Out As Lariani Reach Champions League
USA TODAY • May 24, 2026
Fabregas guides Como to UEFA Champions League place as AC Milan, Juventus miss out
NDTV Sports • May 25, 2026
Como, Roma Reach Champions League, AC Milan And Juventus Left In Limbo