Cesc Fabregas explains why statistics in soccer are misleading

Cesc Fabregas has claimed that analyzing soccer statistics at a surface level can be deceptive. The former midfielder was arguably one of the top midfielders of his generation. Although he recently retired from the pitch in 2023, the Spanish playmaker starred for Arsenal and Barcelona from 2003 to 2014. Fabregas then moved on to play for Chelsea, Monaco, and finally Como later in his career.

Speaking with former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand on Legends Lounge, Fabregas was initially asked how he approaches coaching midfielders. The former star asserted that being able to pass the ball forward on a regular basis is key. “You must have good technique in order to get the ball in tight positions,” stated Fabregas.

“Understanding the game and technique are very important. But individually, for example, I’m obsessed with playing [the ball] forward. The best quality a midfielder can have is to play the ball forward.”

Fabregas has shined as an analyst during Euro 2024

Fabregas then continued on by being cautious of basic statistics without looking any further. “There are all these stats nowadays, ‘100% passing, 90% passing,’ but show me the clips of the passes,” continued the Spaniard. “Are they passing to the center back and close midfielder or are they passes that break lines and making things happen? For me, this is definitely something.”

The former midfielder’s claims are certainly valid. Statistics can be used as a great tool in helping to understand a player’s game. However, most of these numbers need to be looked at thoroughly. Passing figures, as Fabregas suggested, are a perfect example of this. The position and quality of the passes mean just as much as the overall success rate of a player’s distribution.

Since transitioning to the sidelines, Fabregas has regularly provided quality analysis to different platforms. The former star is currently working with the BBC during Euro 2024. While he has appeared alongside popular figures such as Alan Shearer and Micah Richards on the network, Fabregas has certainly held his own. Not only has the Spaniard been solid in the studio, but he has arguably become the star of the show.

Former star now coaches and co-owns Italian club

Following the tournament in France, Fabregas will head back to Como ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. Although he retired as a player, the former Arsenal star is currently an assistant coach and minority shareholder at the club. He teamed up with former Gunner Thierry Henry to purchase a small stake in Como in recent years.

Como was formed way back in 1907 but has mostly struggled throughout their history. Nevertheless, they recently earned promotion back to Serie A for the first time in 21 years. Led by former AC Milan star striker Patrick Cutrone, Como finished second in Serie B last season behind Parma. The top two teams in the division grabbed automatic promotion to the Italian top flight.

Although now behind the scenes, Fabregas’ influence at the club is clearly positive. Former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane appeared close to a switch to Major League Soccer this summer. However, the fellow Spaniard is now reportedly in Italy and discussing a move to Como. Fabregas is crucial to the potential deal.

Photo credits: IMAGO / ABACAPRESS : IMAGO / Sportimage