Former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has cast doubt on Tottenham Hotspur’s prospects of clinching the Premier League title this season.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Fabregas, who played for Arsenal from 2003 to 2011, expressed his reluctance to see their North London rivals triumph, citing his history with Arsenal as the reason.
He stated, ” Not for the moment, in fact, I hope they don’t succeed… (laughs). Both because of my past with Arsenal and with Chelsea.”
Despite his reservations, Fabregas did acknowledge Tottenham’s commendable start to the season, which has placed them at the top of the Premier League table after eight rounds.
Spurs, who lost their captain and key striker, Harry Kane, to Bayern Munich during the summer transfer window, have secured six victories and two draws in their initial league matches.
“Without a doubt, however, they play great football and have started well. In my opinion, City, Arsenal, and Liverpool are the strongest teams in this Premier League,” remarked the 36-year-old.
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Fabregas, a former Chelsea and Barcelona midfielder, has been impressed by Arsenal’s performance this season under head coach Mikel Arteta.
He pointed to last Sunday’s 1-0 victory over treble winners Manchester City as a significant moment in their season.
“I watched the match between Arsenal and Manchester City, and it was tactically very good, even without many chances. The two coaches have made substantial changes because they are well-acquainted with each other. I learned a lot by observing them,” he disclosed.
Fabregas initially joined Arsenal from Barcelona in 2003 and tallied 35 goals in 212 appearances for the Gunners. He later returned to Barcelona for three seasons before coming back to London to play for Chelsea.