ROME, Aug 2 — Former Barcelona, Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has invested in second-tier Italian club Como and also signed a two-year contract to play for them, the club announced at a news conference on Monday.

Ex-Spain international Fabregas became a free agent after his release from Ligue 1 side AS Monaco in the close season.

Como finished 13th in Serie B last season following their promotion from the third tier in 2020-21.

"He owns part of the club, he’s a shareholder,” club CEO Dennis Wise told reporters, without providing further details.

"That’s what Cesc wants to get involved in. He’ll be here a lot longer than expected really. It was important, he felt that way, to be part of it going forward long-term,” added Wise, a former England and Chelsea midfielder.

"There’s a lot more to be done at the football club regarding where we want to end up, in Serie A. He sees it as a good opportunity and I’m pleased he’s on board.” Fabregas was part of Spain’s World Cup-winning team in 2010 and won the Premier League twice with Chelsea. — Reuters