Fabregas of Como expresses regret over altercation with Saelemaekers from Milan.
Como coach Cesc Fabregas has expressed regret for making contact with an AC Milan player near the sideline during Wednesday’s 1-1 league draw at the San Siro.
In the 78th minute, Milan right-back Alexis Saelemaekers lost control of the ball close to the touchline in front of Fabregas.
As the player tried to defend against Como’s counter-attack, his momentum seemed to push him backward into the Spanish coach, who raised his right arm and made contact with Saelemaekers. The Milan player reacted with anger, pointing at Fabregas before moving toward his area.
Following this, both coaches engaged in a discussion on the sidelines, resulting in Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri receiving a red card.
“I apologize once again,” Fabregas, 38, stated after the match.
“I have already done so publicly. I am not proud of it. I have acted in a manner that is likely unsportsmanlike. It is true it was a slight touch, which should not happen, especially from a coach.”
“I recognize that he [Saelemaekers] was upset. I apologize to the coach [Allegri], and I have already done so to [Milan] players Luka [Modric], [Mike] Maignan, and Saelemaekers. I will learn from this experience and hope to avoid repeating it in my career.”
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Before his post-match press conference and still feeling the intensity of the moment, Allegri, 58, was critical of Fabregas.
“Next time someone is on the line, I’ll also step onto the pitch and make a tackle,” the Milan coach told Dazn.
He later remarked in his post-match press conference: “When you are on the pitch, you must show respect towards your opponents and referees. He is a very young coach, just beginning his journey.”
“He is doing well. I hope he achieves a lot in his career and possesses all the potential to do so. A young coach like him requires experience; with experience, you improve and mature.”
Wednesday’s outcome left Milan in second place in the standings, seven points behind Serie A leaders Inter.
