• Premier League

Cesc: I'd have stayed at Arsenal forever

ESPN staff
October 16, 2012
Cesc Fabregas left Arsenal to return to Barcelona © Getty Images
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Cesc Fabregas has told L'Equipe he would have happily stayed at Arsenal for the rest of his career if a return to Barcelona had not come to fruition.

The former Gunners captain was believed to have agitated for a move away from the Premier League when he was made aware of Barcelona's interest, but he says this was not the case, stating his love of London and Arsenal.

"It was a dream of mine to play for Barca, but I was not bitter at Arsenal," he said. "On the contrary, I was living somewhere which, for me, was the most beautiful city in the world, I was in an incredible team with a superb coach and supporters I adored.

"It was not a question of life or death. If Barca had not come in for me, I would have played my whole career at Arsenal. That was certain."

Fabregas, 25, has also revealed that he took a cut in pay to move back to Spain in 2011, underlining his dedication to the Catalan club.

"Yes, there are teams who pay better," he said. "But it was always clear to me. Either go to Barca or stay at Arsenal. The last thing on my mind was money and I have come to Barca and I earn less."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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