Cesc Fabregas makes honest assessment of how Messi would have fared in the Premier League

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has made an honest assessment of how Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi would have fared in the Premier League, had he plied his trade in England.

Messi, undoubtedly one of the best the world has seen in football’s history, has been a shining light in the La Liga since his break through in 2006, into Frank Rijkaard’s squad.

He has been so good, detractors have thought, if he changes leagues, Messi would never really be the same, especially if he plays in England.

Some have said the damning effects of playing in England’s top flight, with loads of physical demands on offer, Messi would struggle to shine as much as he has in Spain, but Fabregas, who has played with Messi at Barcelona in his three years that separated his career at Arsenal, from that at Chelsea, believes Messi would still be the best player.

“Without a doubt, he would still be the best [player in England]. We all want to live it from inside. These games require less talking and to focus on playing and giving all we have. Of course [it means a lot to play Barcelona]. To me, and to all players in the world, including the ones who were born there.

But, whether you like Barcelona or not, the ‘special’ word can be understood in many ways and, as a footballer who likes to live great moments, you know Barcelona offers it, both playing for them or against them. It is going to be a fascinating round and I am sure we are all going to enjoy the games.”

Cesc Fabregas, Goal

Messi, despite never getting on the score sheet in Barcelona vs Chelsea games, has scored a mammoth 17 goals in 16 games against Manchester United, Man City and Arsenal.

He would hope to find the back of the net for the first time against Chelsea in Tuesday’s titanic clash in the Champions League.

Chelsea News