Inter Milan have opened negotiations with Cesc Fabregas to become their new head coach following Simone Inzaghi’s departure in the wake of Saturday’s crushing 5-0 Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. According to Sky Sports Italia, talks are already underway with the former Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea midfielder, who is currently managing Como in Serie A.
Inzaghi, who confirmed his exit on Tuesday after four successful years at the helm, is reportedly set to join Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal on a lucrative contract that would make him the highest-paid coach in world football. The Italian is expected to take charge before Al-Hilal’s Club World Cup opener against Real Madrid on June 18.
Fabregas, despite his relative inexperience as a manager, has quickly established himself as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches. After initially joining Como as their Under-19 coach in 2023, he was promoted to first-team duties following Moreno Longo’s dismissal, before officially taking the reins in July 2024 on a four-year contract. Under his guidance, Como secured a respectable 10th-place finish in Serie A last season.
The Spaniard’s tactical acumen and playing philosophy have already attracted attention from major clubs, with Bayer Leverkusen reportedly approaching him to replace Real Madrid-bound Xabi Alonso before ultimately appointing Erik ten Hag. According to Corriere dello Sport, Fabregas will meet with Como president Mirwan Suwarso in London today to request his release from his current contract.
Inter have identified several alternatives should talks with Fabregas falter, including former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi, Patrick Vieira, and former Inter defender Cristian Chivu. The Italian champions are hoping to finalize their coaching situation before their Club World Cup campaign begins against Monterrey on June 18.
Inzaghi leaves behind an impressive legacy at Inter, having led the Nerazzurri to six trophies including this season’s Serie A title, where they finished ahead of rivals AC Milan on the final day. In his farewell message, he expressed gratitude to the fans: “I want to dedicate one last word to the millions of fans who cheered me on, cried and suffered in difficult moments and laughed and celebrated in the six triumphs we experienced together. I will never forget you.”
