news-engine

Italian talent Mattia Liberali scored a stunning goal in a Como friendly against Villarreal last night and explained why he picked Cesc Fabregas’ side over a return to Milan: ‘Since the very first call, I immediately understood their strong interest in me.’ Fabregas’ Como played two mini friendlies last night, facing Saudi Arabian side Al Ula and Spanish club Villarreal for 45 minutes each. The Azzurri beat Al Ula 3-1 but then lost on penalties to Villarreal after a 1-1 draw. Summer signing Liberali scored a fantastic goal at the far post, giving Como the lead against Villarreal. Video: Liberali’s goal for Como against Villarreal 🇮🇹💎 Mattia Liberali (19) scores his first goal in a Como shirt against Villarreal. ✨ This talent is special. One of Italy’s brightest young stars. 🌟 pic.twitter.com/l8xsa93WEV — New Ballers (@newballers7) July 30, 2026 At the end of the match, he told Sportitalia: “I came here to support and help my teammates. I know it won’t be easy, and we’ll have to give our all. Training after training. Right now, I want to have fun and learn as much as possible from anyone, coach and teammates alike. I hope I can help them too during the whole season.” Fabregas has said that he’s impressed by Liberali’s attitude, especially his curiosity as the Italian talent asks many questions during training sessions. “I want to know every little detail,” Liberali confirmed. “Nowadays, you need to take care of every movement, both in attack and mostly in defence. I have a lot to learn, so I ask because he knows more than I do. “I feel I can help the team. There are many strong players, and everyone is ready to give their best. Currently, I just want to help the team.” A product of the Milan academy, Liberali played for Catanzaro in Serie B last season and, this summer, Milan made an attempt to bring him back, but the 19-year-old chose Como instead: “Since the very first call with the coach, Fabregas, I immediately understood their strong interest in me and my interest in them,” he explained. “It’s an ambitious club with many young players that aims to play good football and never give up. Currently, I think the best pathway for me is the one I’ve taken.” Lastly, Liberali was asked whether he hopes for an Italy call-up with new coach Roberto Mancini in charge: “I don’t know; it all happened in the last few hours. Now, I’m only focused on Como,” Liberali concluded. Liberali: “Dalla prima chiamata con Fabregas ho capito il forte interesse per me. Milan? Al momento credo che questo sia il percorso giusto“ Le parole di Mattia Liberali, protagonista della sfida tra Como e Villarreal 🎤#sportitalia #como #liberali pic.twitter.com/LNewQmBcmH — Sportitalia (@tvdellosport) July 29, 2026