Thierry Henry has said he would understand if Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas returns to Barcelona this summer.
Barca lured Henry, Arsenal's all-time leading goalscorer, away from north London three years ago and while the striker said he would like to see Fabregas remain, it would be understandable if the 23-year-old returned to his homeland.
"It is hard because the guy is from Barcelona. I wouldn't like to be in his shoes that's all I can say," Henry told Radio Five's Sportsweek programme.
Spain international Fabregas has consistently been linked with a move back to the club Arsenal signed him from as a teenager, with Barca's interest firming since the end of last season.
The Catalans had a 35million euros offer for the midfielder turned down by the Gunners last month, who for their part have shown little sign they would like to part with one of their most prized players.
Henry added: "I wouldn't like to be in his position because he is from there and he loves Arsenal.
"I don't know what to say about this, because I don't want to talk for him.
"But as an Arsenal fan, for me, I want him to stay at Arsenal, but I would also understand if he goes back home."
Henry is preparing to begin a new chapter in his life after he signed for Major League Soccer side the New York Red Bulls this week.
The 32-year-old is likely to finish his career in the United States after he signed a "multi-year deal", but revealed when his playing days are over he would like to return to the Emirates Stadium in some capacity. "What I want to do is when I retire, I don't know how, but I want to come back to Arsenal," he added.
Source: PA
