Former Chelsea and Premier League goalkeeper Asmir Begovic believes Cesc Fabregas could eventually become Arsenal manager, potentially succeeding Mikel Arteta if the Spaniard leaves the club in the years ahead.
Fabregas is currently focused on Como, who he is helping to guide through Serie A. The former midfielder has said “Serie A is the priority” for Como this season, with the club sitting fourth in the table after three games.
The 38-year-old has made an impressive transition from playing to coaching. Having been regarded as a technically gifted midfielder and a strong tactical thinker during his playing career, Fabregas has carried those qualities into management.
His early work with Como has attracted attention, and Begovic believes the former Spain international has the characteristics required to reach the highest level of coaching.
“Cesc Fabregas to Chelsea or Arsenal? You wouldn't rule it out. Having played with him, I know he understands the game inside out, his knowledge is absolutely brilliant. He commands respect from his players and works with great energy, enthusiasm, and intensity.
“It’s a perfect mix for a top manager, and his work at Como has been outstanding, but at some point he will look to kick on in his career and look at those next steps.
“I’m sure Chelsea would've considered him, but obviously they went down the route of Xabi Alonso, which is a fantastic appointment.
“A move to Arsenal would also be a fitting step given his stature there. I wouldn't be surprised to see him managing in the Premier League or La Liga soon, he has the potential for an incredible managerial career.”
Fabregas spent a significant part of his playing career at Arsenal, making 267 appearances for the club. He became the Gunners’ captain at the age of 21 and contributed 35 goals and 70 assists during his time in north London.
That history would make a return to Arsenal in a managerial role particularly notable. Begovic feels the club would represent a natural destination for Fabregas if he continues to progress as a coach and looks for a move beyond Como.
Arteta is not expected to leave Arsenal in the near future. However, if the club were to struggle over the next few years, potential successors would inevitably be discussed, and Fabregas would be among the names considered as a possible replacement.
Begovic also suggested Fabregas could attract interest from Chelsea, where the goalkeeper played with him, although Chelsea have chosen Xabi Alonso as their managerial appointment. A move to either the Premier League or La Liga could therefore become an option for Fabregas as his coaching career develops.
For now, his immediate objective remains Como’s Serie A campaign. The Italian side have made a strong start, placing fourth after three matches, while their manager continues to build a reputation that Begovic believes could lead to an “incredible managerial career.”