Chelsea star Cesc Fabregas enters the Jose Mourinho vs Pep Guardiola debate

Chelsea star Cesc Fabregas has refused to pick the better manager between Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho. The Spaniard played under the current Manchester City boss at Barcelona, while the under-pressure Manchester City coach lured him back to the Premier League to play at Stamford Bridge.

Fabregas's decision to play under the Portuguese tactician was viewed with scepticism at the time. Having thrived under the passing philosophies of Arsenal and Barcelona, many believed he would struggle to fit into Mourinho's plans. Furthermore, the pair had a tense relationship from their time as rivals in La Liga.

But Fabregas eventually built a strong bond with 'The Special One', helping him secure both the Premier League and the League Cup in his debut campaign at Chelsea. However, the former Barcelona star was later accused of leading a dressing-room revolt against Mourinho, leading to his eventual sacking at the club.

Fabregas denied those claims at the time and has now said he retains a big affection for Mourinho. He also refused to enter the Mourinho/Guardiola debate, even after the pair's lives in Manchester started in very different ways.

Questioned during an interview with Cope as to who is the best manager between Guardiola and Mourinho, the Chelsea star replied: "Do not make me choose between them, please. I can't really say one or the other because I have very good relationship with both."

When asked whether he prefers the style of the Manchester City boss ahead of the United manager, he added: "I cannot answer which football I like the most"

Fabregas did address the debate over Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi though, saying he has no doubt his former Barcelona teammate is the greatest.

"[Eden] Hazard is the best at Chelsea. Everyone knows that in the dressing room and Messi is the best in the world. There is no doubt."