Originally Posted by
Giggs
'Highbury felt like home' - Former captain Cesc Fabregas feels stadium move may have affected Arsenal
Former Gunners captain says move to the Emirates Stadium may be behind lack of recent success and is happy to see Arsene Wenger's side qualify for the Champions League group stage
Cesc Fabregas believes Arsenal’s move away from Highbury to the Emirates Stadium is one of the reasons for their recent lack of success.
The Spaniard, who completed a €40 million (£35m) move to Barcelona earlier this month after eight years with the Gunners, feels the old ground had a special quality to it.
He told reporters: "I have never felt at home as I was at Highbury at any other stadium in the world but it was not my decision, it was the club's decision, it was what they needed in that moment.
"Highbury was a special thing that I don't think will happen anymore, but Arsenal have to make the Emirates their own home now and with their own cabinet of trophies to start all over again."
The midfielder admitted he was happy to watch the Gunners progress to the Champions League group stages after a difficult week for the side, but did reveal he was concerned when Udinese got a goal back and a penalty.
"I watched it and became a bit scared when they scored and got the penalty," said the Spain international.
"But I think after we saved the penalty the game became more comfortable for us and I think we played very well.
"I'm very happy for Arsenal and their fans because they deserve to be in the Champions League.
"It's a big boost for the club and the players, because it is a very difficult season and I am sure from this they will get so much confidence they can move forward."
There will be no possibility of an early reunion for Fabregas and Arsenal, with his Barcelona side also in Pot 1 of the group stage draw.