Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger says he's had a heart-to-heart with Cesc Fabregas about a proposed move to Barcelona.

Wenger is adamant Cesc will play this season as Gunners captain.

He revealed: "I have spoken to him directly. I believe it's important that meetings between me and the players remain secret.

"There's a great attitude and spirit inside the squad and Cesc can help us achieve these targets.

"He's now 23 and he has just won the World Cup. I believe he will grow in authority again.

"The biggest achievement for him now is to help us win the Premier League title.

"I will see him on August 5 at 10am here at the Emirates.

"The World Cup finished on July 11. They went home for some celebrations and it was mentally impossible to then go without any holiday, to play and be at your best.

"That is particularly the case in England where there is no winter break. After the World Cup a player needs four weeks off and, so far, he has had three and a half."

 
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