Arsenal must keep Robin Van Persie: Fabregas
ROBIN Van Persie should consider his options before signing a new deal at Arsenal, according to former team-mate Cesc Fabregas.
The future of Fabregas’s replacement as captain at the Emirates has yet to be resolved and the Dutchman, who has netted 18 times this season, has just 18 months left on his contract. Van Persie has already stated that he will not discuss a new deal until the summer.
Following Spain's 1-0 defeat to England on Saturday, Fabregas was asked whether Van Persie would fit in at Barcelona, where the Spaniard moved in the summer - after eight years at Arsenal - for around £35 million.
“He would fit in anywhere but I’m an Arsenal fan and I want him to stay at Arsenal,” came the diplomatic reply.
However Fabregas added ominously of Van Persie: “I don’t know if they (Arsenal) will keep him. It is his decision.
"At his age (28), if he wants to move it will be his last chance and if he wants to stay he will stay and retire at Arsenal.
"We will see what he decides but he’s been very loyal to Arsenal for a few years. He is a key player; the fans love him. For me, he is the role model of Arsenal, the star player and they cannot afford to lose him.”
Of his own move to Barcelona, Fabregas, who has been playing in a more advanced role, said: “I’m smiling, scoring and playing, I’m with my friends every day. For me it is like a dream at the moment. I’m playing more than I expected, so I’m very happy. We will see at the end of the season. I want to win trophies.
“I know some people thought I wouldn’t get in the team. Maybe they didn’t believe in me too much.”
Meanwhile, Holland were held to a goalless draw by Switzerland in Amsterdam on Friday and Van Persie will be rested for their clash with Germany on Tuesday.
Van Persie has been ruled out with fatigue after playing the full 90 minutes against the Swiss.
