Barcelona rule out Fabregas move, for now

Fabregas was integral to Arsenal's demolition of Everton (GETTY IMAGES)

Barcelona coach Josep Guardiola has ruled out being able to sign Spain international midfielder Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal this summer.

The 22-year-old started his career with the Catalans giants before heading to England to join the Gunners six years ago.

He has since established himself as one of the top playmakers in European football, having scored 31 goals in 232 appearances in all competitions.

However, Guardiola admitted: "Cesc will not come. He is an important player for Arsenal and they have already sold Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor.

"I believe it will not be possible this season. He is a very interesting footballer, but now he will play another year in England."

Meanwhile, Guardiola is refusing to get carried away despite Barcelona securing a 2-1 first-leg advantage over Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish Super Cup.

Xavi Hernandez and Pedro scored the goals for the Catalan side, but afterwards Guardiola admitted they were still some way short of their best.

"We did well in the first 25 minutes but we attacked too fast and were ineffective. We need to build up," he said.

"Athletic is a great football team and the players play for the shirt. We will do well to take them seriously.

"This result was good but we must do better."