Behind some of the most celebrated minds in modern football stands a quiet but profound influence from Wales. Osian Roberts, the former technical director of the Football Association of Wales, has been a pivotal figure in shaping the coaching careers of a glittering list of former players: Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira, Cesc Fabregas, and Mikel Arteta. It was at Dragon Park in Newport where Roberts first guided these future managers through their coaching badges, planting the seeds for their sideline success.
Roberts's own journey has now taken him to the heart of one of Italy's most exciting football stories. After a stint as assistant to Vieira at Crystal Palace, a recommendation from Thierry Henry led Roberts to Italian club Como 1907 as interim manager in December 2023. His impact was immediate, steering the historic club to promotion to Serie A. In a seamless transition, he then handed the managerial reins to his assistant, Cesc Fabregas, while staying on as the club's head of development—a move that has proven inspired.
Speaking to the BBC World Service, Roberts praised Fabregas's rapid and natural transition from world-class midfielder to promising coach. "He's an amazing man, a very intelligent young man," Roberts said. "He's showing that he has the same mindset, intelligence, the drive and the hunger to succeed as the manager as well." That drive is translating into remarkable results. Under Fabregas, Como currently sits fifth in Serie A, just two points off a Champions League spot with five games remaining.
The fairy tale doesn't stop there. Como is also on the cusp of history, just 90 minutes away from its first-ever Coppa Italia final, with a semi-final second leg against Inter Milan poised at 0-0. "It would mean everything to the club," Roberts emphasized, highlighting the renewed joy for the long-suffering fans. He credits this success to a collective effort and a clear identity, stating, "There is no right way to play football... we have our way which is specific to Como." It's a philosophy built on hard work, humility, and a unified vision—a testament to the foundational coaching principles Roberts has instilled in so many.