Cesc Fabregas will reject any approach from Chelsea this summer as the former Blues midfielder holds out for the Arsenal managerial job instead, according to reports.
From Como to the Emirates? Fabregas waiting for Arsenal, not Chelsea
The 37-year-old Spaniard has impressed across Europe during his two seasons in charge of Italian side Como, who currently sit fifth in Serie A just three points off a Champions League qualification spot with four games remaining.
Fabregas first took temporary charge of Como between November and December 2023, but could not secure the permanent role at the time because he lacked a UEFA Pro coaching licence.
After helping the club gain promotion to Serie A as an assistant coach in May 2024, he finally received his licence and became head coach in June 2024.
Now his success has attracted interest from top clubs. Chelsea are searching for a new manager after parting ways with Liam Rosenior following just three months in charge, and Fabregas’s name has emerged as a potential candidate.
However, Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol suggests the Spaniard would turn down a move to west London.
“Cesc Fabregas, what I’ve been told, there’s some kind of suggestion that long-term, the plan for him is to manage Arsenal one day,” Solhekol said on the Sky Sports Transfer Talk podcast.
“I’m not sure moving to Chelsea would be part of his career progression.”
Fabregas played 198 games for Chelsea, winning five trophies including two Premier League titles.
Yet he made 303 appearances for Arsenal, who made him club captain at just 21 years old under Arsene Wenger.
While the Arsenal job seems unlikely to become available at the end of this season, questions could arise over Mikel Arteta’s future if the Gunners fail to win the Premier League or Champions League. That scenario might open the door for Fabregas.
With Como almost certain to qualify for European competition for the first time in their history, Fabregas may prefer to test himself on the continental stage before making a move to the Premier League.
