Cesc Fabregas gave us the best indication yet that he will feature in an Arsenal shirt next season by joining teammates for today’s pre-season open day where he posed for the team photo.
The playmaker arrived late for the session but emerged on to the Emirates turf to an ovation as 10,000 Gunners fans pondered his future at the club in the light of the continual speculation involving a move to Barcelona.
Fabregas looked happy enough but is yet to categorically confirm his future at the Emirates. Arsene Wenger remains adamant that Fabregas will stay and is reportedly looking for his skipper to declare his loyalty but as yet, there’s been no such a statement from the player.
Fantasy Managers will be biding their time with Fabregas. His returns of 15 goals and 15 assist from last season did enough to earn him a lofty price tag this term but with his future and fitness in doubt, a “wait and see” policy looks advisable…
Fabregas remains a doubt for the season opener at Anfield with Arsene Wenger questioning his levels of fitness following his World Cup exploits. He and Robin Van Persie will go into the Liverpool game without a pre-season match under their belts. Both will miss Saturday’s friendly with Legia Warsaw.
Despite being ranked second for midfielders in the Fantasy Premier League game last season, Fabregas is currently only the fifth most popular selection in pre-season with 16% ownership. The doubts surrounding him have helped Frank Lampard to head the pack on 32% ownership but Fabregas also trails the likes of Gareth Bale, Barry Ferguson and Charles N’Zogbia in the current rankings.