Cesc Fabregas has revealed that Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta inadvertently played a big role in him leaving the club for Arsenal back in 2003.

The now Chelsea midfielder was a part of Barcelona's legendary youth academy when he caught the eye of Arsene Wenger and joined the Gunners.

He moved to north London as a 16-year-old and quickly established himself as a first team player, receiving the captain's armband at the tender age of 21.

Speaking to the BBC about why he decided to leave his home for the Premier League, Fabregas discussed the influence of the Gunners boss.

Cesc Fabregas signed for Arsenal aged 16 years old (
Image:
AFP)

"It was [a big decision]. I had just turned 16," said Fabregas.

"Then you see Arsene Wenger there waiting for you, cutting his holiday, just to come and see you. For me it was a bit like 'what have I done?!'

The Spaniard returned to Barcelona in 2011 (
Image:
Getty)

"Then they made an offer for me, Arsene was very clear he wanted me to train with the first team since day one.

"I'm not going to lie it was tough but a fantastic opportunity."

Fabregas was put off by the fact Andres Iniesta was struggling for first team football (
Image:
AFP)

Fabregas would later re-sign for Barcelona in 2011, where he remained for three seasons before returning to the Premier League with Chelsea.

He impressed on his return to Catalonia as an established player, something he admits he wasn't when he was a teenager - a big factor in his decision to sign for Arsenal.

Fabregas eventually returned to the Premier League with Chelsea (
Image:
Action Plus)

"At Barcelona it was so difficult. You had the likes of Iniesta who still didn't even reach the first team at the time and he was seen as the next big thing.

"I had to make the decision and I did it. It happened and here I am today."

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