Fabregas: ‘It was difficult to tell Wenger I’m leaving, Guardiola sent me messages’

THE Cesc Fabregas spoke to Kammy and Ben’s Proper Football Podcast about his departure from Arsenal in 2011 and how the manner in which he left led to it Arsène Wenger turning down the chance to have him back ahead of his move to London and Chelsea.

The 35-year-old Spaniard explained how difficult it was for him to tell Wenger that he wants to return to Barcelona while stressing that his contribution helps pep Guardiola was decisive in his decision.

“In my heart it was the easiest decision to go to Barcelona because of what I had in my past, because playing in the first team has been my dream since I was a child.

But it was really difficult because Arsenal gave me so, so much and I felt so loved by the whole club, by the fans.

It was very difficult for me to have to go to Arsene, the guy who gave me everything, to really say, ‘Please, I want to go back home (Barcelona). If it wasn’t for Barcelona, ​​I would certainly have stayed at Arsenal. Whatever happened.

I was frustrated that I didn’t win for so many years at Arsenal and that I’m “losing” because I gave so much and played 60 games a season and never rested.

It touched me very emotionally. And then I saw everyone at Barcelona winning and playing so well and Pep called me and texted me: ‘I want to do this, I want to play 3-4-3, let’s all play together and blah blah blah

Guardiola was a big influence for me because he was my idol when I was very young. I wear number 4 because of him. I played in his place when I was at Barcelona academy.

And when your idol, your hero, calls you and then it was like you see what a nice football they play and there are so many of your friends playing there.

When I signed for Barcelona I said Arsenal will be the first choice if I leave. You had one week to reply.

So obviously we approached Arsenal and said: “Look, I’m leaving Barcelona and you have a week to decide whether you want me back or not.”

I couldn’t speak to any other group for a week. After a week we called Arsene and he said that he had thought about it and that they already had a lot of players in my place like Mesut Özil… Cazorla, Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey and he said he would have to pass someone send out and that might work, you know…

I also think he was a little hurt with me leaving and stuff. I don’t hold grudges because it’s their right, their choice, and they could do whatever they wanted.

I had a couple of options and one of them was Chelsea. I spoke to Mourinho, I met him. He told me things that were very nice to hear. He wanted me to be the leader of that team.”