Fabregas: Leaving Real Madrid would be tough for Casillas

Posted Wednesday, May 13, 2015 by Goal.com

The Chelsea midfielder believes that the goalkeeper could struggle outside of La Liga but says that he will always defend him for what he has achieved in his career

Cesc Fabregas has warned Iker Casillas that he will find life away from Real Madrid very difficult if he decides to leave the club.

The three-time Champions League winner has been linked to a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu over the last year, having become the subject of criticism from fans and media alike.

Fabregas says that he will always defend the goalkeeper for everything that he has achieved at club and national team level but admits that, at 33 years old, Casillas could struggle to adapt to life outside of Madrid.

"I have defended Iker many times," the Chelsea star told Cope, "and deservedly so because I feel really sorry for him. If I have to, I will again without hesitation.

"He is a great captain, a great person, a great friend and a great footballer. There isn't much else to say, just look everything he has done for the national team and Real Madrid.

"He is a legend at Madrid, he has been there forever. A move would be a very difficult step for him, I was younger when I moved to England so it was different.

"Madrid and Barcelona are worldwide and the biggest clubs in the world in all senses. Taking a step into another league or another team is difficult.

"There are times in life that change is good and others that it is not. He has to decide what is best for him."