Rijkaard: Fabregas is perfect

Fabregas: Admired by Rijkaard

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Teams

• Arsenal
• Barcelona

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• Cesc Fabregas

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Barcelona manager Frank Rijkaard believes Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas has no weaknesses in his game.

The Spaniard has netted an impressive 11 goals already this season, and is considered the heartbeat of The Gunner's side.

Fabregas began his career as a Barcelona trainee, before Arsene Wenger brought him to North London in 2003.

Barcelona have regularly been linked with a move to secure the 20-year-old's return to Spain, however Wenger has consistently dismissed any speculation.

No defects

Speaking to Sport, Rijkaard has done little to dampen rumours of an eventual approach, by drooling over Fabregas' talent.

"It's one player that stands out most in the football world because of his enormous talent. At his age what he is doing at Arsenal is something impressive," he said.

"It should be bared in mind that it has become the real leader Arsenal.

"I do not go searching for any defects in people, but the truth is you do not encounter any [in Fabregas]."

Defiant

Furthermore, Wenger has responded to reports after Fabregas flew out to Spain to watch Barcelona's midweek clash with Rangers.

The French tactician has quelled any potential rumours, insisting that the wonderkid was simply taking some time out.

"This is no story," he said. "Fabregas is under contract with us. If Barcelona want to buy any player under contract then I'll give them my phone number. But I think they have it because they just bought Thierry Henry."

When asked if he would be open to an offer, Wenger replied: "No chance."