Before today, Arsene Wenger claimed Cesc Fabregas was “50-50” to play in Saturday’s clash, but he has just been confirmed as unavailable. After undergoing tests today for a hamstring injury he picked up against Celtic, he has been ruled out from facing us.
How much of an impact will this have?
08/09
Arsenal won 2-1 at the Emirates. Fabregas played 90 minutes.
United won 1-0 at Old Trafford. Fabregas played 90 minutes. CL
United won 3-1 at the Emirates. Fabregas played 90 minutes. CL
0-0 draw at Old Trafford (United won the league). Fabregas played 90 minutes.
07/08
2-2 at the Emirates. Fabregas scored and played 90 minutes.
United won 4-0 at Old Trafford. Fabregas played 70 minutes (3-0). FA Cup.
United won 2-1 at Old Trafford. Fabregas played 90 minutes.
06/07
Arsenal won 1-0 at Old Trafford. Fabregas played 90 minutes.
Arsenal won 2-1 at the Emirates. Fabregas played 90 minutes.
05/06
0-0 at the Emirates. Fabregas played 80 minutes.
United won 2-0 at Old Trafford. Fabregas played 69 minutes (1-0).
It seems as though Fabregas hasn’t really been a crucial factor in whether Arsenal beat us or lose to us. In the 11 games he has played against us, United have won 5 and Arsenal have won 3.
However, since Fabregas broke in to the team in 2005, Arsenal have never beaten us without him playing for the entire match.