• Premier League

No Fabregas regrets, says Wenger

Arsene Wenger says he has no regrets over not bringing Cesc Fabregas back to Arsenal this summer, but admits it is "strange" seeing him in a Chelsea shirt.

Fabregas shone in his first game for Chelsea in the Premier League, providing two assists and putting in a man-of-the-match display in the 3-1 win at Burnley on Monday night.

Cesc Fabregas shone for Chelsea in their 3-1 win at Burnley © Getty Images

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His performance has led many to question Wenger's decision to turn down the chance to re-sign him when he left Barcelona.

"I have no regret about that at all. My regret is that he left us," Wenger told reporters.

"It was strange [seeing Fabregas play for Chelsea], but you have to accept that professional players move from club to club.

"It was difficult for him to leave us, but after that you accept he can move to some different clubs. Of course it was a bit strange, but he had a good game."

Wenger went on to suggest the departure of Fabregas has opened the door for the rise to prominence of Aaron Ramsey, whom he believes can make an even bigger impact than the Spaniard at Arsenal.

"What is good in life is that someone moves out and someone else takes over and he has developed," said Wenger.

"Ramsey has a different style to Fabregas, but he has developed into a player with huge potential. There is more coming out of Ramsey. He is younger than Cesc and the potential is there to get more out of him."

Wenger again suggested that his transfer activity in the final few days of this summer window will be focused on trying to sign defensive players, with ESPN sources confirming Olympiakos defender Kostas Manolas is on his wanted list.

"We listen to the names [being linked with Arsenal]," said Wenger, with a smile. "Sometimes I look to see who we buy in the media.

"At this moment, we are in an emergency case. We have the players we want. We are open to any opportunity in the transfer window who can strengthen our defensive department in quality and number.

"I am open to do it [sign players], but it has to be linked with the needed quality. I tell you something. 20 top clubs in the world, they look all for the same positions, so it is not necessarily out there."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd