Arsene Wenger argues that letting Cesc Fabregas transfer to Barcelona was necessary because the Spain midfielder no longer demonstrated full commitment to the Gunners.
For the past two years, Wenger has battled to keep Fabregas from Barcelona’s grasp, but the Arsenal manager ultimately conceded last week, recognizing the futility of retaining a player eager to depart.
He urged the Arsenal board to accept the Spanish champions’ recent bid of 35 million Euros, with Fabregas expected to be officially presented as a Barcelona player early Tuesday.
Although Wenger had compelled Fabregas to remain at the Barclays Premier League club last season, the midfielder’s lackluster performances indicated his unhappiness, and the French coach could not allow a similar scenario this season.
“Yes, we lost a world-class player and understandably, we feel sorrow. We did attempt to retain him, but ultimately we must honor the player’s wishes as well,” Wenger stated during a press conference on Monday.
“It is quite challenging to elicit the best from a player; they must be wholly devoted to their current environment.
“If there is one thing to understand, it’s that Cesc’s departure wasn’t financially motivated. His desire was to return to his hometown.
“It wasn’t that he didn’t love the club. He was eager to return to the place where he was educated. That is a hard desire to resist.
“Everyone is entitled to their opinion, yet decisions must be made. This was my decision, and I, of course, presented it to the board and chairman.”
Wenger also acknowledged the potential struggle in retaining the unhappy midfielder Samir Nasri, who has been associated with Manchester City.
When queried about whether Nasri’s situation was linked to Fabregas’s departure, Wenger replied: “The two situations are separate. Ideally, I would like Samir Nasri to remain, but while we held a strong position regarding Cesc’s contract, this situation presents more complexity.
“We hope to resolve the matter and keep him. I prefer not to speculate on the future. It’s quite challenging to respond truthfully regarding our ability to retain him.”
Despite Fabregas’s exit being another setback for the increasingly pressured Wenger, the Frenchman did not exhibit any signs of worry or frustration, expressing instead a desire to move past a saga that had become a notable distraction.
While some critics are forecasting the conclusion of an era, Wenger maintains confidence that Arsenal will thrive without Fabregas.
“This club is celebrating 125 years this season, and throughout history, many notable players have left, yet the club has evolved. We aim to demonstrate that we possess the strength and unity to continue striving as always,” he remarked.
“I recognize that there are concerns, but I also believe the club stands as a united front.
“Our players require the backing of our fans, which is paramount. This is a crucial time for the club, and I am optimistic we can navigate forward successfully.
“It is essential that we remain united and not allow the media to influence our supporters.”
Privately, Wenger is thought to be irked by Barcelona’s approach in negotiating for Fabregas, with statements from the club and various players contributing to the unrest of the Arsenal captain.
Yet, when asked about the conduct of the European champions, he declined the chance to criticize them.
“I prefer not to comment on that. It would lead to an unending dialogue,” he stated. “What is vital now is to concentrate on our objectives, and we wish Cesc the best, as he is among the finest players globally. Life continues.”
by Buford Balony