Revealed: Chelsea legends clash over 'direction' of club

James Shearman

• Updated: 26 Jul 2024 22:38 BST
• 3 min read

Chelsea legends Cesc Fabregas and Dennis Wise have clashed over the 'direction' of Italian club Como.

Wise joined Como five years ago as a consultant and was promoted to the role of CEO in 2021.

The Englishman has played a vital role in helping them rise through the football pyramid from Serie C to Serie A.

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Meanwhile, former Chelsea midfielder Fabregas was assistant coach of Como in the 2023/24 Serie B promotion-winning campaign.

He has since been appointed the head coach and thus has been granted more say in the club's decisions.

One of those appears to be the departure of Wise as CEO, despite what he has achieved in the role.

Dennis Wise on Como exit

Wise took to Instagram to announce his exit from the Italian club and made it abundantly clear that it was not his decision.

"It is with a heavy heart that I leave Como 1907," he said.

"I wish the club success going forward. It has been an incredible journey with Como 1907, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have had here.

"The support from the team, the coaching staff, and our loyal fans has been overwhelming, and I will always cherish the memories we've made together.

"During my time with the club, we have made significant progress and achieved promotion back into Serie A, which gives me immense pride. I want to acknowledge the collective effort that made that possible.

"I am also incredibly grateful to the fans who have supported us through thick and thin. Their passion and unwavering support have been a driving force for me to achieve the success they deserve.

"The Club has decided to follow Cesc Fabregas' direction. I wish good luck to the team, to Cesc, and to all the new recruitment team in the next steps; Serie A status and European football—I wish you continued success.

"While this is a farewell, it is not the end. I will always carry the spirit of Como and its wonderful people with me, wherever I go."