Hleb praises 'father' Wenger

Barcelona new boy also denies criticising Fabregas

Last updated: 23rd July 2008

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Hleb: Wenger like a father

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Alexander Hleb admits 'father' figure Arsene Wenger helped him to secure his 'dream' move to Barcelona.

Belarussian midfielder Hleb completed his switch to Barca from Arsenal last week to end his three-year association with the Gunners.

Hleb has nothing but praise for Wenger after dismissing recent suggestions that he disagreed with the Arsenal boss regarding his position in the team.

The former Stuttgart schemer has also denied calling Cesc Fabregas 'selfish', claiming the Spaniard is his 'best friend'.

Thank you

"I never said anything bad about Arsene or Fabregas," the 27-year-old said. "This was just an English newspaper saying this.

"For me, Fabregas is my best friend and I had a good understanding with him on the pitch.

"Arsene Wenger, for me, is like a father. He gave me a lot and I learned a lot from him and I need to say thank you to him for the fact that I now play in Barcelona.

"If Arsene Wenger stays at Arsenal, they will always play at the top. I think he is everything for Arsenal."

Hectic

Hleb, who is currently in Scotland for Barca's pre-season tour, suggested family reasons were a key factor in his decision to leave Arsenal.

He added: "I am from Belarus and I was always with my family in December for Christmas and New Year, and it is very important.

"London was very hectic, it was really just football that helped me in that life.

"I wanted a change and Barcelona for me are the biggest team. It is my dream and I'm very happy.

"Now this is a different league and I hope I adapt as quickly as possible."