Senegalese forward Assane Diao resumes training 

Assane Diao has returned to training with Como after a month on the sidelines, though head coach Cesc Fàbregas has confirmed the Senegalese forward will not be rushed back into competitive action.

The 20-year-old striker, who joined the Serie A newcomers last winter, has been out since mid-August with an injury that kept him out of the club’s opening matches of the season.

His absence has been a major blow for Fàbregas, who had made Diao a central figure in his attacking plans following a strong debut campaign.

Breakthrough interrupted

Diao quickly became one of Como’s most exciting players after his arrival, impressing with pace, movement, and an ability to trouble defenders.

His freedom on the pitch under Fàbregas’ guidance made him a standout figure during the second half of last season.

The new campaign, however, has not gone according to plan.

Instead of building on that momentum, Diao has spent the opening weeks in recovery, watching his teammates from the sidelines.

First step back

On Friday, September 19, the forward finally rejoined training with the squad. His participation was welcomed as a positive step forward, both for the player and for Como’s staff, who have been eager to see him reintegrate.

Still, his full return is not expected any time soon.

Fàbregas, speaking after the session, made it clear that caution remains the priority.

Diao is doing better. But I’m the first to take no risks. I prefer a return in three or four weeks to be sure he’s 100%, the former Barcelona and Spain midfielder explained. He’s a very important weapon for us.

Patience the key

With Como battling to establish themselves in Serie A, Diao’s eventual comeback will be seen as a significant boost.

Yet Fàbregas’ insistence on a gradual recovery underlines just how valuable the youngster has become for the club.

The coach is determined not to jeopardise his long-term fitness for short-term gains.

For Diao, the next few weeks will be about regaining sharpness in training and steadily building back to match fitness.

The club and its supporters will be hopeful that when he does step back onto the pitch, he will pick up where he left off—injecting energy, creativity, and goals into Como’s attack.

While the wait goes on, Friday’s training session marked an important milestone in his recovery, offering both Diao and Como a glimpse of optimism for the weeks ahead.