Arsenal are set to do battle with Manchester United next
week, but there will be no war of words if Cesc Fabregas has his
way.
The Gunners skipper has put hostilities on the back burner and
claimed United are ‘the best side in the world’ and one of the
‘biggest clubs in history’.
The two sides go head-to-head in the Champions League semi-final
first leg on Wednesday with United still in the hunt for their
second Premier League and Champions League double in consecutive
seasons.
And despite the bitter rivalry that has existed between the
clubs over the years, Fabregas insists he has nothing but respect
for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side.
"I have no problem saying United are one of the best clubs in
the world - even though I want to beat them,” Fabregas told the
News of the World.
"They are the best side in the world at the moment - a top, top
side and we respect them a lot.
"In fact, they are one of the best clubs in history. I respect
Alex Ferguson for what he has achieved.
"There have been some great battles over the years and I am sure
these two games will be just as interesting and dramatic.
"Rooney and Ronaldo are amazing. I really and admire them for
what they do.
"They have been excellent players from an early age and it's
unbelievable how they have maintained their amazing standards.
"I am a big fan of both of them. You can expect just about
anything from them and they always make a difference in games. Look
at Ronaldo against Porto - what a goal! It was one of the best
goals I've seen."
But the Spaniard is far from overawed by the prospect of facing
United and remains adamant Arsenal have the players to scupper
their European hopes.
He added:"United are probably our biggest rivals but they are a
team who play good football.
"You always enjoy these games but we are determined to come out
on top.
"There is always good football in games between the two of us.
They like to create and we have a go, so it's tremendous for the
supporters.
"At least we know we can beat them as we proved at The Emirates.
They had their best players in the game earlier in the season and
we won. That gives us tremendous confidence."