In an interview with Sport Magazine, the Daily Mirror reports former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas revealed that he forced his way out of the club because he had given up hope that the north London club could win the English Premier League or the UEFA Champions League in the near future.
"We weren't winning any titles and it was very frustrating for me. I didn't feel like I was developing as I should be," he said. "I want to be in a club that is able to win the big titles year after year and I don't see that kind of future for Arsenal. … I fear that they won't be able to push the other big clubs in England away. I respect that Arsenal don't have the same financial opportunities as the others, but it was part of my decision to leave that I find it hard to see Arsenal winning the Premier League or Champions League in the near future."
Fabregas returned to his boyhood club Barcelona last month in a deal worth as much as £35 million ($55.34 million) if certain sporting conditions are met. He joined Arsenal as a 16-year-old in 2003 and spent eight years there. The last six years, three months and 28 days have been trophy-less ones for Arsenal.
After a summer of miserable transfer speculation, Arsenal ultimately capitulated and sold their prize assets. Fabregas joined Barcelona and French midfielder Samir Nasri won his riches at free-spending Manchester City.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger made nine additions to the squad in the summer transfer window, though many are unproven in the English game. The Gunners' slow start to the season indicates that he Fabregas may be correct. Wenger's kids are in a state of perpetual development and, unless they're as good as he thinks they are, Arsenal is still many years away from winning major honors.
It is essentially a new Arsenal team, but how good can they be? Have your say below.
Is Fabregas Right? Will Arsenal win any major honors in the next 3-5 years?
