In a twist that would have seemed impossible just a few years ago, the "forbidden" bridge between Arsenal and Tottenham may soon be crossed by one of the Gunners' most iconic figures. According to reports from TEAMtalk and GiveMeSport, former Arsenal and Chelsea captain Cesc Fabregas is open to taking the permanent manager role at Tottenham Hotspur—despite his deep-rooted ties to their fiercest rivals.
As Spurs continue their hunt for a long-term successor to the recently dismissed Thomas Frank, Fabregas has emerged as the "tactical wild card" that has the Premier League's elite taking notice.
The "Como Revolution"
Since taking the reins at Serie A side Como 1907 in 2024, Fabregas has undergone a meteoric rise in the managerial world. Currently sitting 6th in Serie A, Fabregas has transformed a former underdog into a Champions League contender, earning plaudits for:
Developing Elite Talent: Real Madrid starlets Nico Paz and Jacobo Ramón have flourished under his wing, with both now tipped for big-money returns to Spain.
High-Octane Tactics: His blend of Spanish possession and Italian defensive discipline has drawn comparisons to his former mentor, Pep Guardiola.
Star Attraction: Fabregas has used his legendary status to attract veteran experience to Como, proving his "pulling power" in the transfer market.
A Loyalty Test: Arsenal Connections vs. Spurs Ambition
While the "Sol Campbell effect" still lingers in North London, sources indicate that Fabregas does not view his Arsenal history as a barrier to the Spurs job. Having already played for both Arsenal and Chelsea during his career, the 38-year-old is reportedly focused on the "sporting project" rather than historic rivalries.
"Fabregas is fast emerging as one of Europe’s most highly-regarded young managers... and he would happily manage Tottenham if the project is right." — TEAMtalk
The Man City Factor: Planning for a Post-Pep Era
Tottenham aren't the only ones doing their homework. Manchester City are reportedly "lurking in the shadows," keeping a close eye on Fabregas as they conduct due diligence on potential successors to Pep Guardiola.
With rumors intensifying that Guardiola could leave the Etihad at the end of the 2025/26 season—possibly for a lucrative role in Qatar or Saudi Arabia—City’s sporting director Hugo Viana has placed Fabregas on a shortlist alongside names like Xabi Alonso and Enzo Maresca.
The Managerial Shortlist: Who is the Favorite?
While Fabregas is the "shock" name on the list, the race for the Spurs dugout remains crowded:
| Candidate | Status | Why they are linked |
| Igor Tudor | Current Interim | Hired to stabilize the squad until June 2026. |
| Cesc Fabregas | The Dark Horse | The tactical choice favored by data-led recruitment. |
| Mauricio Pochettino | The Emotional Choice | Fans are desperate for a homecoming for the "Magic Man." |
| Eddie Howe | The Premier League Pro | Reportedly under serious consideration after his success at Newcastle. |