“They knew I was going to start and I didn’t know” - Fabregas shares ‘funny’ story behind Arsenal debut
Former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas told the "funny" story behind his debut for the Gunners in a recent interview with BBC Sport. The Spaniard was a key part of the North London club's squad from 2004 to 2011.
Fabregas made 303 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 57 times and assisting 94 goals for the club.
The FIFA World Cup-winning midfielder reminisced about his debut in a recent interview and stated that he hadn't been informed that he would feature in the League Cup match against Rutherford.
"It was super special. I was 16 and it was against Rotherham in the League Cup. I didn’t expect it to be fair. Nobody told me that I was going to start the game. Only my family [knew] actually because they came without me knowing."
Fabregas made his debut on 28 October 2003 and his family had travelled for the special occasion as they knew that he would be starting. He added:
“They knew I was going to start and I didn’t know. So that was actually quite funny. And then after the game, I saw them there and I was very happy.”
Cesc Fabregas eventually left Arsenal in the summer of 2011 to join Barcelona, his boyhood club. The Spanish midfielder is fondly remembered by the Gunners' faithful for his time in North London.
Arsenal target Mikel Merino discusses the Premier League
Arsenal midfield target Mikel Merino has talked about his memories of the Premier League amid reports of interest from the Gunners. The Spanish midfielder is highly rated and also a target for Catalan giants Barcelona, as per reports.
Merino is no stranger to the English top flight, having previously made 24 Premier League appearances for Newcastle United.
Speaking to Faro de Vigo while on international duty with Spain, the midfielder was asked about the Premier League. He recalled his experience, saying (via FotMob):
"What marked me the most in Newcastle was the stadium, the fans. I think it was a unique life, feeling what St James' Park is, I will always have it in my heart and mind because it is something unique."
Arsenal will hope they can secure the 28-year-old's services ahead of the new season as they look to challenge again for the elusive Premier League title. For the time being, Merino will be focused on the ongoing Euro 2024 tournament with Spain, where he and La Roja have secured their place in the Round of 16.