Fabregas took disciplinary action against Como talent Nico Paz

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Susy Campanale | Last updated Feb 28, 2026 1:21 PM ET

There are reports Cesc Fabregas left Como star Nico Paz on the bench against Lecce today for disciplinary reasons after the Real Madrid product turned up late to a meal.

It was very surprising when the starting XI for today’s Serie A match did not include the young Argentine, especially considering he was suspended for last week’s 2-0 win away to Juventus.

Nico Paz gets the message from Fabregas

COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Fabregas was asked about the situation before kick-off, questioned on whether Nico Paz was rested ahead of Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Inter.

However, he replied it was “not because of that, it was simply a choice that I made.”

COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and ACF Fiorentina at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

According to Sky Sport Italia, the real reason has now been revealed, and it is disciplinary action to send a message to the rest of the squad.

Nico Paz reportedly irritated the Como coach by turning up late to a team dinner in preparation for this game.

He did come on as a substitute eventually in the 3-1 comeback victory, so has evidently been forgiven after this initial warning.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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