Cesc Fabregas

50 Top Soccer Player their trade today, based on a combination of current form, potential and overall ability.  Ranking  determined by a panel of contributors to ESPN's soccer.

Cesc Fabregas                Rank Player 16

Profile
Birth name                 Francesc Fàbregas i Soler
Birth date                  May 4, 1987
Birth place                 Arenys de Mar, Spain
Height                       1.79 m (5 ft 10 in)
Weight                      58 kg
Playing position         Midfielder
Current club              Barcelona
Number                    4


Biography
Cesc Fabregas is a Spanish footballer who plays as a central midfielder for La Liga club FC Barcelona. Fàbregas started his career as a trainee with Barcelona but was signed by Premier League side Arsenal in September 2003 at the age of 16. Following injuries to key midfielders in the 2004–05 season, he went on to establish himself as Arsenal's starting central midfielder, playmaker, and captain. He broke several of the club's records in the process, earning a reputation as one of the best young players for his position.

In 2011, he returned to Barcelona.  In international football, the Spaniard's national career began when he represented the Under-17 side at the 2003 FIFA U-17 World Championship in Finland. As a result of his club performances, he was called up to the senior squad in 2006. He has played in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro 2008 and 2010 FIFA World Cup, helping Spain to become eventual winners in the two most recent tournaments.


Scouting thumbnail
Dynamic playmaker who can score, create and beat defenders on the dribble. Always demands the ball, can be a little careless with turnovers at times.