Former Arsenal Captain Tipped as Potential Future Chelsea Manager

Ex-Barcelona and Spain midfielder Gaizka Mendieta believes Cesc Fabregas could be an attractive option for both Chelsea and Arsenal down the line.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Chelsea recently appointed Liam Rosenior as their new head coach, but former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas is already being touted as a potential future manager at Stamford Bridge. The suggestion has been made by ex-Barcelona and Spain midfielder Gaizka Mendieta, who believes Fabregas' impressive early work in management could make him an attractive option for both Chelsea and Arsenal in the years ahead.

Why it matters

This speculation highlights the ongoing managerial carousel in the Premier League, with top clubs constantly on the lookout for new talent. Fabregas' success in Italy with Como 1907 has caught the eye, and his previous experience as a player at Arsenal and Chelsea makes him an intriguing potential candidate for both London clubs in the future.

The details

Rosenior was appointed Chelsea manager last month following the sudden departure of Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day. While Chelsea suffered a Carabao Cup defeat to Arsenal, the former Hull City boss has otherwise made a positive impression during the opening weeks of his tenure. However, doubts remain about his long-term suitability for the role, given Chelsea's recent history of managerial changes. Mendieta believes Fabregas could quickly emerge as a serious candidate should Rosenior's position come under scrutiny.

  • Fabregas took over as the permanent head coach of Como 1907 in July 2024.
  • In his first full season, Fabregas guided Como to a 10th-place finish in Serie A, their best league position since 1987.
  • This season, the club sit seventh, just one point outside the European qualification places.

The players

Cesc Fabregas

A former Arsenal captain and Chelsea midfielder who has impressed as the head coach of Como 1907 in Italy.

Gaizka Mendieta

A former Barcelona and Spain midfielder who believes Fabregas could be an attractive option for both Chelsea and Arsenal in the future.

Liam Rosenior

The current Chelsea manager, who was appointed last month following the departure of Enzo Maresca.

Alvaro Morata

A player who was recently involved in a disciplinary incident with Fabregas, which Mendieta sees as a sign of the manager's growing authority.

Mikel Arteta

The current Arsenal manager, who Mendieta suggests could one day move abroad, potentially to Barcelona.

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What they’re saying

“I think Cesc Fabregas will take his time because he has everything he needs at Como. He wants players, they bring him players. Whatever he wants, they bring it to him. And that's allowing him to have that kind of power in the decision-making.”

— Gaizka Mendieta, Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder (BetBrothers)

“I think it's the first time he goes public about a player. For me, that's showing personality, showing, 'I'm the boss,' and that obviously is a sign of 'I'm going to be here for a while'.”

— Gaizka Mendieta, Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder (BetBrothers)

What’s next

While Fabregas' future remains uncertain, Chelsea's immediate focus is on supporting Liam Rosenior in his new role as manager. Fabregas will continue to build his reputation as a coach at Como 1907, with both Chelsea and Arsenal monitoring his progress closely.

The takeaway

This story highlights the ongoing search for top managerial talent in the Premier League, with former players like Cesc Fabregas emerging as potential candidates for high-profile jobs at their former clubs. It also showcases the importance of developing strong leadership and decision-making skills as a young coach, which Fabregas appears to be demonstrating at Como.