Cesc Fabregas played against Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, but the Liverpool star was the toughest opponent

By premiernews On Apr 11, 2024

Steven Gerrard was the most difficult opponent to face: he could do everything.

That is the opinion of Cesc Fabregaswho enjoyed many battles in the middle of the park during his Premier League career.

Fábregas has named Gerrard as the toughest player he has had to face in his career

During his time at Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona, Fábregas ran into the world's elite, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

But as they were both forwards, Fábregas chose to name a player with whom he regularly fought for the ball in central midfield: Gerardo.

Speaking of the Reds icon, against whom he played so much for the gunners and the blues said SPORTBible: “I always felt like he had everything in his locker.

“He could dictate the game, score goals, give assists, run behind. Offensively he was very strong.

“You always felt that when you faced him you had to be at the top of your game, otherwise you would be in trouble, because he was so consistent.

“He always went and eight, seven, eight, seven (out of 10).

“For me he was a role model and someone, looking back, I really appreciated playing against him. I learned a lot from him.”

During Fábregas' time in England, he and Gerrard were considered two of the best midfielders.

Fabregas competed against Manchester United icon Ronaldo during his Arsenal days

And he also faced Messi in the Champions League

But Fabregas believes his battles with Gerrard made him the toughest opponent he faced.

The pair were named together in the 2007/08 PFA Premier League Team of the Year.

And they also featured in the UEFA Team of the Year line-up in 2006.

Gerard Piqué reveals that Lionel Messi didn't care about Cristiano Ronaldo, but CR7 still made a key change because of his rival

In total, Fábregas and Gerrard shared the field on 18 occasions in all competitions, including the Premier League, Champions League and League Cup.

Fabregas managed to contribute two goals against the former England captain, as well as registering five assists.

And it was the Spaniard who prevailed in his history of direct confrontations, winning eight of the matches, losing four times and drawing six of them.

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