Cesc Fabregas’ latest admission about Arsenal will split the opinion of fans.
Fabregas is enjoying life as manager of Como, who currently sit sixth in Serie A.
Though the Spaniard is an Arsenal icon, his reputation took a significant hit when he signed for Chelsea in 2014 from Barcelona.
Fabregas is etched in Arsenal’s history, and whether fans love him or loathe him now, once upon a time, the reception was only love.
How do you feel about Cesc Fabregas? Is he an Arsenal legend?
Cesc Fabregas says Arsenal fans treated him better than any other club
Fabregas just featured on CBS Sports Golazo’s Kickin’ It, where he opened up about his time at Arsenal.
The midfielder signed when he was 16 and left as a 24-year-old, rising through the ranks with intent.
“I wanted to prove myself at the biggest stage with the biggest players and the best players in the world,” he said.
“You know, and that was difficult in a way. I don’t like to use the word difficult, but it was challenging because I all of a sudden went from being the Arsenal captain and playing every single game, and you know, the fans singing my name and being treated really like so nice. I mean, so nice. I don’t think I’ve ever been treated even better than in those years.”
The Spaniard was a hero at Arsenal, as Fabregas was adored by Arsene Wenger and loved by supporters.
While the comments are heartwarming and reflective of how much of a loveable figure he was in North London, they can’t be interpreted as they once would.
Arsenal fans might not appreciate Fabregas’ comments
Fabregas doesn’t have the best reputation with Arsenal fans now.
Things went wrong at the 2010 World Cup, as in Spain’s celebrations, Fabregas was spotted in a Barcelona shirt that he was forced into by his teammates.
Arsenal fans didn’t appreciate the scenes, but Fabregas returned, only to leave to sign for his boyhood club a year later.
After three years at Barcelona, the former midfielder then joined Chelsea, earning villain status among Arsenal fans.
For some, seeing his comments about the support he received from fans will feel futile, as today, supporters feel betrayed by his transfer decisions.
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