Messi: I can’t wait for Fabregas to join Barcelona

Lionel Messi admits he is disappointed Cesc Fabregas didn't complete his move to Barcelona this summer and is desperate to play with the Arsenal midfielder.

Messi and Fabregas were team-mates in Barcelona's all-conquering youth team before the Spaniard switched to the Premier League aged 16.

Barcelona tried to re-sign the World Cup winner this summer but Arsenal won the battle to hang on to their captain.

And Messi admits he was desperate for the 23-year-old to join him at the Nou Camp and reckons he would improve the Spanish champions.

"Who wouldn't want Cesc in their team?" said the reigning World Player of the Year.

"I have always said that I would love to play with him again, as we did in the Cantera (Barcelona's youth side)."