Cesc Fabregas has revealed that he did speak with other clubs about a potential managerial switch before opting to remain at Como.
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Fabregas linked with open position at Bayer LeverkusenSpanish coach stays at ComoCredits the atmosphere at Italian club Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Fabregas had been heavily linked with a move to Bayer Leverkusen after Xabi Alonso left the German side to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid. However, the former Spanish midfielder has turned down the opportunity, opting to remain at the Italian club for at least another season. Fabregas has admitted he has spoken with other clubs about taking over, but credits the atmosphere at Como as the key reason he wishes to stay.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportWHAT FABREGAS SAID
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Fabregas said: "I talked to the club, we made progress, I am happy here. I want to understand if everyone wants to continue like this and they are all aligned with my ideas. I also spoke to other clubs, I am respectful and speak to everyone.
“There is to be an official announcement. I am happy, we all need to be on the same page to continue together.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Fabregas explains that he wishes to create a family-like atmosphere at the club, similar to the one he felt at Arsenal when he was breaking through into the first-team as a teenager. He believes that by helping his players develop as people, they will become better footballers too. He explained: “I was alone at Arsenal at the age of 16, so I know how you create a family. We will have a training centre here of a high level. I want to put my lads in the best possible context to create a human bond. I want a good person first and foremost, more than a good player, so I look them in the eye and want to evaluate everything.”
GOAL/GettyWHAT NEXT FOR FABREGAS?
With Serie A wrapping up next weekend, Fabregas will already be considering his squad for next year. He added that he would like to trim the size of his squad, which includes former Spurs wonderkid Dele Alli, to help create a more tight-knit group. Should Fabregas choose to keep Alli, he will be desperate to help the Englishman recapture the brilliance he once displayed in the Premier League.