Mourinho: Cesc Fabregas chose Chelsea over Arsenal because he was 'looking for titles'

Jose Mourinho insists he is not worried whether Cesc Fabregas will receive a hot reception on his first return to the Emirates.

Mourinho aimed a thinly veiled dig at Arsenal by insisting they were able to lure Fabregas to Stamford Bridge with the promise of titles.

Arsenal had first option to re-sign Fabregas last summer but their former captain chose Chelsea. Fabregas is on course for his first Premier League winner’s medal with Chelsea.

Mourinho added: “I know why he chose Chelsea. I don't know why he didn't choose Arsenal. I can only speak about what we promised him. I can't talk about the decision for him leaving Arsenal, or what stopped him going back.

“I don't know if it was the manager's or his decision. I just promised him we'd build a team very adapted to his style of play. That he was going to be an important player in our project. And that, normally, good projects end with titles. He was looking for that. That's all I can say.

“I don't know (what reception he will get). To be fair, I don't know. And to be fair, I'm not worried with that. Frank Lampard played at Stamford Bridge without any kind of problem and with a good reception.

“I don't see a reason for Fabregas not to have the same at the Emirates. But, if he has some bad reactions, I thinkhe's one of the players who is more than ready. He played in Barcelona with an Arsenal shirt. Why can't he play at the Emirates with a Chelsea shirt? No problem.”

“I don't know (what reception he will get). To be fair, I don't know. And to be fair, I'm not worried with that. Frank Lampard played at Stamford Bridge without any kind of problem and with a good reception.

“I don't see a reason for Fabregas not to have the same at the Emirates. But, if he has some bad reactions, I thinkhe's one of the players who is more than ready. He played in Barcelona with an Arsenal shirt. Why can't he play at the Emirates with a Chelsea shirt? No problem.”