Reports have been developing that Chelsea’s midfielder Cesc Fàbregas is contemplating a sensational move to Santiago Bernabéu. Fàbregas was kept unused on the bench as Chelsea’s new manager Antonio Conte opted for a midfield duo of N’Golo Kanté and Nemanja Matić in the first game of the season for his new employers. The Blues defeated West Ham United by two goals to one, but not everyone in the dressing room seemed to be elated.
New attacking acquisition Michy Batshuayi, underperforming winger Pedro and even the serially ignored Victor Moses were introduced by the former Italian boss in the first game but paved no room for the former Arsenal skipper who was an instrumental figure under José Mourinho’s regime.
Fabregas did play a part in the win over Watford but it was a mere 12-minute cameo. His impact was visible though as he played a sublime pass for Costa to score the winner. Conte has shown that he is one who can change games with his substitutions. The problem is, though, a star player like Fabregas won’t be contented with just cameo’s or game-changing appearances. It’s a bit baffling to see players being linked with a move just because they didn’t start the game, but such is the nature of the transfer market. One day you’re a regular, and the very next game week you’re linked with a move because the manager dropped you.
The 29-year-old was ‘reportedly‘ seeking a way out of the Stamford Bridge, and the coincidence is that Real Madrid are looking for a proven central midfielder illustrates a perfect scenario for both the parties involved. A bit outrageous considering Fabregas’ Barcelona connection.
Fàbregas’ move back to Spain looms as Conte is looking for an aggressive and resilient commander at the centre of the park, which is why it would not be very hard to believe that his days at London are severely numbered. He isn’t the quickest of the lot, refrains from committing himself severely as far as the defensive duties are concerned and with rapidly fading ability of reading the game up front along with the plethora of superstars Chelsea have at their disposal, he isn’t likely to get a nod for the starting berth anytime soon for the Pensioners.
The Spanish international endured a torrid campaign last season, scoring six goals and assisting nine times from 49 appearances, but he still has some good years left in him and his calibre is something that the Los Blancos won’t be unfamiliar with. Pérez is exploring his options in the midfield region, and there is no reason why he should not put Fàbregas under his radar. He is still one of the big-name assets in the football fraternity and could prove to be a replacement for Real Madrid midfielders like James Rodríguez and Isco who are likely to be shown the way to exit in the summer transfer window.
It would be intriguing to see if the former Barcelona man would shake hands with Barça’s arch rivals and it would certainly attract a lot of controversies, should the deal materialize.
