Arsenal vs Chelsea: Arsene Wenger reveals Cesc Fabregas 'regret'
Spaniard returns this weekend for the first time since departing for Barcelona in 2011
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Arsene Wenger has expressed regret at Cesc Fabregas leaving Arsenal in 2011.
The then Gunners captain opted to move to Barcelona in a £30m deal despite the club wanting to retain his services.
This weekend he will return to the Emirates for the first time as visitors Chelsea look to move a step closer to winning the league title.
Despite some fans being disappointed by Fabregas' move to Chelsea - which came only after Arsenal opted not to take up their option to sign him when Barcelona indicated they were ready to sell - Wenger has called on fans to show the World Cup winner respect.
"I want every player to be respected, and Cesc Fabregas when he comes to the Emirates on Sunday to be respected like he deserves," the Arsenal manager said.
"The regret I have is that he wanted to leave here. This club and myself had a very positive influence on Cesc's life, so I would be a bit uncomfortable to have to justify today why he is not here.
"I believe I would rather it was the other way around."
It remains to be seen what sort of reaction the former crowd favourite will receive from home supporters on Sunday, but Wenger feels it should not be hostile.
Victory for Chelsea would put them just one win away from the Premier League title, whilst victory for the Gunners would keep alive their slim hopes of catching the Blues.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments