Former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has shared insights into the invaluable lessons he learned from three of football’s most legendary managers: Pep Guardiola, Arsène Wenger, and José Mourinho, Soccernet.football reports.
Now coaching Serie A side Como, Fabregas opened up to ESPN about the unique strengths each coach brought to his development.
Fabregas, who played under Guardiola at Barcelona during the 2011-2012 season, was particularly impacted by the tactical genius of the current Manchester City boss.
“I think tactically, Guardiola is the one I have learned the most from. He always studies the opponent, knows exactly what to do, and provides solutions,” Fabregas said.
“That’s what I try to do with my players because they need to understand what’s happening on the pitch,” said Fabregas. He credits Guardiola with shaping his understanding of the game in a way that continues to influence his coaching today.
Reflecting on his time under Arsène Wenger at Arsenal, where he spent eight seasons, Fabregas praised the Frenchman’s patient approach to player development.
“A gentleman. The best thing I learned from him is the patience you have to have with players. I know that nowadays patience doesn’t exist. Coaches are fragile and scared of losing two games. I love working with young people, and that requires patience,” Fabregas explained.
Fabregas also acknowledged the bravery of José Mourinho, under whom he won the Premier League at Chelsea in 2014-2015.
“Courage, and above all, his way of managing the dressing room. He plays with the players’ heads, understands who is mentally ready to achieve objectives, and quickly identifies who can help the team win.”
Currently, Fabregas’ Como side, newly promoted to Serie A, are battling in the lower half of the table, sitting 14th with eight points from seven games.