Hleb looks to build bridges
by Ciaran Baynes, 23 July 2008
Alexander Hleb has called Arsene Wenger a 'father figure' and Cesc Fabregas his best friend, as well as stating that improving his quality of life off the pitch was a big reason for him joining Barcelona.
Hleb moved to the Catalan giants for £11.8 million earlier this month after a long, drawn out saga.
His departure from the Emirates Stadium became a bitter one after he was quoted as saying that Fabregas was selfish and criticised where Wenger played him on the pitch.
Hleb insists he never made the statements attributed to him and says it was off-field problems that made him want to leave the club.
"I never said anything bad about Arsene or Fabregas," Hleb said. "This was just an English newspaper saying this.
"For me, Fabregas is my best friend and I had a good understanding with him on the pitch.
"Arsene Wenger, for me, is like a father. He gave me a lot and I learned a lot from him and I need to say thank you to him for the fact that I now play in Barcelona.
"If Arsene Wenger stays at Arsenal, they will always play at the top. I think he is everything for Arsenal.
"London was very hectic, it was really just football that helped me in that life. I wanted a change and Barcelona for me are the biggest team. It is my dream and I'm very happy.
"Now this is a different league and I hope I adapt as quickly as possible."