Cesc Fabregas confirmed that Assane Diao is closing in on a return to action as Como continue preparations for a demanding run of fixtures in Serie A.
Speaking on Friday ahead of Saturday’s lunchtime meeting with Udinese, the Como head coach outlined a clear recovery timeline for the Senegalese striker, who remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Diao’s setback forced him to withdraw from the Africa Cup of Nations, a disappointment for both club and country.
Fabregas explained that the forward followed the required medical protocol shortly after the injury occurred, including a brief trip to Senegal for additional examinations.
“He went to Senegal and spent three days there for checks, which is almost mandatory,” Fabregas said. “He needed confirmation of the injury, and then he came back three days later.”
After returning to Italy, Diao completed the initial stage of his rehabilitation under the supervision of Como’s medical staff. Fabregas then decided to give the player a short break to help him recover mentally as well as physically.
“He finished the first phase of his recovery here,” the coach added. “I then gave him four days off so he could recharge and go back to Spain to be with his family. He will return on Monday.”
From that point, Como plan to step up the intensity of Diao’s programme. Fabregas confirmed that the striker will move from individual conditioning to on-pitch work as early as next week, a key milestone in his comeback.
“From Monday, he will leave the pool and start working on the pitch,” Fabregas said.
“I think he can return for the match against Torino on January 24, but we still have a long road ahead.”
The coach also left the door open for an earlier comeback, depending on how Diao responds to the next phase of training.
Como face Lazio on January 19, and Fabregas acknowledged that the medical staff will monitor the situation closely.
“We will see how the next two weeks go,” he said. “It’s roughly three weeks, but nothing is certain yet. He might feel ready a few days earlier.”
Diao’s return would offer a timely boost for Como as they look to maintain momentum during a packed January schedule.
His pace and movement provide Fabregas with valuable attacking options, especially after a period that tested the squad’s depth.
For now, Como remain cautious. The club prefers patience over risk, determined to avoid any setback that could delay Diao’s progress further.
If the recovery stays on track, late January could mark the moment the Senegalese forward steps back onto the pitch.
