Cesc Fabregas has heaped praise on departing Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, saying that he will "never forget the guidance" that he was given during the early stages of his career.
On Friday, Wenger revealed that he would step down from his role with the Gunners at the end of the season to close a 22-year chapter at the North London outfit.
Wenger signed Fabregas from Barcelona as a 16-year-old, and the Spaniard went on to make 303 appearances for Arsenal before returning to Camp Nou in 2011.
Fabregas now plays for London rivals Chelsea, but the playmaker has paid tribute to Wenger for the influence that the Frenchman has had on his trophy-laden career.
On Instagram, Fabregas said: "Wow. I never expected that but it shows the great dignity and class of the man. I will never forget his guidance and support, his tutelage and mentorship.
"He had faith in me from day one and I owe him a lot, he was like a father figure to me who always pushed me to be the best. Arsene, you deserve all the respect and happiness in the world."
Club legend Paul Merson and Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp are among the names to have given credit to Wenger's time at Arsenal.
Darren Plant
