Madrid: Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas has ruled out any hint of problems with new coach Tito Vilanova.
Although he has started his side’s three BBVA Primera Liga matches this season, Fabregas, who joined Barca from Arsenal a season ago, was substitute in his side’s two Spanish Super Cup matches against Real Madrid.
TV cameras captured him with a discontented look on his face in the Barca dugout, while the fact that he was substituted during Barca’s 1-0 win over Valencia on Sunday has provoked speculation that Fabregas doesn’t fit into the tactics of Vilanova, which are slightly more direct that his predecessor Pep Guardiola, and that relations between player and coach are not good.
Fabregas was taken off after around 60 minutes against Valencia after missing two good chances to score.
On Tuesday, Fabregas denied that he disagreed with Vilanova while admitting he didn’t enjoy being on the bench.
“There isn’t a good substitute in the world of football. I can’t say that I am a great substitute, as I like to play,” said Fabregas, who denied this made him a poor dressing room companion.
“I wish all my companions luck, put on a brave face and if I have to look downcast, I do it in my own home. I am not going to do it in front of my team mates and coach.
“I am delighted to be part of this club and if I am not playing, I will work, work and work until things change. I have come to Barcelona to try and retire here,” he continued.
“The coach knows what I can do. I have always said I am in the best team in the world and I have come here to compete, to learn and to enjoy, not to worry about things all the time,” said the Spaniard, who also added that he has never felt in better physical shape than right now. (Agencies)