Fàbregas Soler
~Fab
May 04' 1987
Spain
The Exhilarating Story...
Francesc "Cesc" Fàbregas Soler, born on May 4, 1987, in Arenys de Mar, Spain, is a testament to resilience and determination in the world of football. Raised by his parents, Francesc Fàbregas Sr. and Núria Soler, Cesc's passion for the sport was evident from a young age. His father, a former footballer, and his mother, a devoted homemaker, provided unwavering support as he pursued his dreams. At 16, Cesc made the bold decision to leave FC Barcelona's famed La Masia academy to join Arsenal FC in London. This move was driven by his desire for first-team opportunities, a choice that required immense courage and adaptability. Under the guidance of manager Arsène Wenger, Fàbregas quickly integrated into the squad, making his debut in 2003. Wenger's unique approach, focusing on the player's background and personality, played a pivotal role in Cesc's development. Despite his rapid rise, Fàbregas faced challenges, including adapting to a new country, culture, and the physical demands of the Premier League. However, his determination and the support from mentors and teammates helped him overcome these obstacles. By 2008, he was named Arsenal's club captain, highlighting his leadership qualities and the respect he commanded. In 2011, Cesc returned to Spain to play for FC Barcelona, fulfilling a childhood dream. His tenure at Barcelona added La Liga and Copa del Rey titles to his accolades. Yet, the competitive nature of the squad meant he had to continuously prove himself, a challenge he met with characteristic perseverance. The next chapter of his career led him back to England in 2014, where he joined Chelsea FC. Despite offers from other top clubs, a conversation with manager José Mourinho convinced him that Chelsea was the right fit. At Chelsea, Fàbregas added two Premier League titles to his name, further cementing his legacy. Internationally, Cesc was instrumental in Spain's golden era, contributing to their UEFA Euro 2008 and 2012 victories, as well as the 2010 FIFA World Cup win. His vision and playmaking abilities were crucial to Spain's midfield dominance during these tournaments. After a stint at AS Monaco, Fàbregas joined Como 1907 in Italy's Serie B in 2022. His experience and leadership were invaluable in helping the club achieve promotion to Serie A after a 21-year absence. Transitioning into management, Cesc took on the role of head coach at Como, aiming to establish the club in Italy's top tier. In a recent gesture reflecting his character, Fàbregas extended an invitation to former England international Dele Alli to train with Como. Recognizing Alli's potential and current challenges, Cesc's support underscores his commitment to helping fellow professionals. Cesc Fàbregas's journey from a young aspirant in Spain to a celebrated player and now a manager in Italy exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and leadership. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide, demonstrating that with passion and support, one can overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
“
You have to fight for your dream, but you also have to feel fortunate for what you have.
Career
Last updated: Jan 22' 2025
Arsenal
- Career: 2003-2011
- Total Appearances: 212
- Total Goals: 35
Barcelona
- Career: 2011-2014
- Total Appearances: 96
- Total Goals: 28
Chelsea
- Career: 2014-2019
- Total Appearances: 138
- Total Goals: 15
Monaco
- Career: 2019-2022
- Total Appearances: 54
- Total Goals: 3
Como
- Career: 2022-2023
- Total Appearances: 17
Spain
- Career: 2006-2016
- Total Appearances: 110
- Total Goals: 15
Como
- Career: 2024 - Present (Manager)
- Total Games: 21
- Total Wins: 4
- Win Rate: 19.05%
Achievements
Arsenal
- 1x FA Cup
- 1x FA Community Shield
- 1x Football League Cup runner-up
- 1x UEFA Champions League runner-up
Barcelona
- 1x La Liga
- 1x Copa del Rey
- 2x Supercopa de España
- 1x UEFA Super Cup
- 1x FIFA Club World Cup
Chelsea
- 2x Premier League
- 1x FA Cup
- 1x Football League Cup
Monaco
- 1x Coupe de France runner-up
Spain
- 1x FIFA World Cup
- 2x UEFA European Championship
Individual
- 1x FIFA U-17 World Championship Golden Ball
- 1x FIFA U-17 World Championship Golden Shoe
- 1x UEFA European Under-17 Football Championship Golden Player
- 1x Bravo Award
- 1x Golden Boy
- 2x UEFA Team of the Year
- 2x Premier League Player of the Month
- 2x Arsenal Player of the Season
- 1x PFA Young Player of the Year
- 2x PFA Team of the Year
- 3x ESM Team of the Year
- 2x UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament
- 1x FIFA FIFPro World XI 5th team
Orders
- 1x Prince of Asturias Award
- 1x Gold Medal of the Royal Order of Sporting Merit
Celebrating
El Apache
Football
Aug 23' 2025
Celebrating Focus & Dreams Carlos Tévez.
Carlos Alberto Tévez was born on February 5, 1984, in Ciudadela, Buenos Aires, and grew up in the notoriously tough neighbourhood known as Fuerte Apache. As a young child, he suffered severe burns when boiling water splashed onto his neck and chest. Hospitalised in intensive care for months, the resulting scars became part of his identity and he refused cosmetic treatment later on, saying they were himself then and himself now. Originally named Carlos Alberto Martínez after his mother, he was born to young parents - Juan Alberto Cabral and Fabiana “Trina” Martínez - but was raised by his maternal aunt Adriana Noemí Martínez and her husband Segundo Raimundo Tévez. They gave him the surname he’s known by today. Fuerte Apache presented daily challenges - poverty, violence, and limited opportunities. Yet even in that adversity, Carlos found an escape in local pitches. He began playing for Estrellas del Uno, Santa Clara, and Villa Real before joining All Boys’ youth system and eventually being scouted by Boca Juniors. At 16, Tévez made his debut for Boca Juniors, kickstarting a stellar rise. With Boca, he won the Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup in 2003. Despite offers for plastic surgery to remove his scars, he declined, embracing the part of life that had forged his resilience. His success continued at Corinthians in Brazil, Manchester United, Manchester City, Juventus, and beyond - bringing Premier League titles, Serie A triumphs, and Champions League glory. On the international stage, he won Olympic gold in 2004 and represented Argentina at multiple World Cups and Copa América tournaments. Behind every ascent were the people who believed in him - adoptive parents who supported him, coaches who nurtured his talent, and teammates who fought alongside him. More importantly, his own determination and refusal to let his scars define him became his greatest allies. After retiring in June 2022, much of his heart returned to Argentina. He took managerial roles at Rosario Central and Independiente before stepping into a key role at Talleres de Córdoba in July 2025, tasked with lifting a struggling team and inspiring a new generation. In June 2025, Tévez stunned at the Soccer Aid charity match, scoring four goals in just ten minutes to lead the World XI to a dramatic comeback at Old Trafford. The performance reignited memories of his brilliance even British boxing champion Tyson Fury praised his timeless impact. Tévez’s journey shows that true champions emerge from hardship, powered by grit, pride, and support. At 8lete, we believe that young athletes no matter their starting point - can reach greatness with the right training, community, and mental resilience. Tévez’s story reminds us how robust support systems and self-belief can turn raw talent into global legacy. Whether you’re a young player in a tough neighbourhood or facing personal challenges, remember Tévez’s example: scars don’t hide your strength - they reveal it. With focus, mentors, and platforms like 8lete, your dreams are closer than they seem. Take that first step - your own legend awaits.
READ MORE
Celebrating
Tikus
Football
Aug 22' 2025
Celebrating Identity & Perseverance Marcus Thuram.
Born on August 6, 1997 in Parma, Italy, Marcus Lilian Thuram‑Ulien arrived with football flowing in his blood. His father, Lilian Thuram, was already a celebrated World Cup winner and European champion with France. Growing up in that household, Marcus experienced both privilege and high expectations. His father, Lilian, originally from Guadeloupe, had moved to France to pursue a football career that would become legendary. Lilian’s dedication, discipline, and later activism against racism showed Marcus that greatness came from more than just athletic talent but also character and awareness. Being “Lilian’s son” was both a blessing and a burden. Marcus often heard expectations that his achievements were easier, even when he was just a boy honing his skills. He absorbed his father’s values - nothing is given, everything is earned and used them as a foundation to build his identity. Marcus joined Sochaux’s academy as a teenager, made his professional debut in 2015, and moved to Guingamp in 2017. He then transferred to Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2019, where he began to establish himself—scoring goals, showing confidence, and stepping out of his father’s shadow. By 2020, Marcus received his first senior call-up to the French national team. He played at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup, where he reaffirmed his potential - not as “Lilian’s son” but as Marcus Thuram, making his own mark and contributing to France’s success. In July 2023, Marcus joined Inter Milan, signing a contract through 2028. He made an immediate impact, helping the club win the Serie A title in his first season and becoming one of the squad’s most influential figures. 2025 proved challenging. Marcus struggled with form, scoring just twice in 15 league games, and suffered from injuries - persistent ankle and muscle issues disrupted his rhythm and limited his availability for key fixtures, including the Nations League quarter‑finals for France. Despite these setbacks, he’s determined to bounce back. Heading into the new season, he aims to reclaim his spot at Inter and silence doubters. Transfer rumors link him to Premier League interest, with clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea reportedly monitoring him. Meanwhile, his father publicly urges him to remain grounded despite his potential. Marcus’s journey is a powerful lesson in perseverance, identity, and self-belief. He shows that a legacy can guide but not define you - hard work, resilience, and learning from setbacks are what forge champions. Whether in youth academies or grassroots setups, young players need more than training - they need guidance, psychological support, and tailored mentorship. This is exactly where 8lete comes in. By providing young athletes with structured development programs, mental coaching, mentorship from professionals, and tools to build their own identities, 8lete can empower the next generation to follow in Marcus’s footsteps - flourish under pressure, rise above challenges, and carve out their own legacy.
READ MORE
Celebrating
Big Rom
Football
Aug 21' 2025
Celebrating Purpose & Potential Romelu Lukaku.
Romelu Lukaku Bolingoli, born on 13 May 1993 in Antwerp, Belgium, rose from the depths of hardship to become one of the most feared strikers in world football. His story begins in a modest household of Congolese heritage, where his mother stretched every drop of milk by watering it down to feed the family, teaching him early lessons in sacrifice and determination. Lukaku’s father, Roger Lukaku, himself a professional footballer and former Zaire international, served as both inspiration and guide throughout Romelu’s childhood. Despite their financial struggles, his parents made profound sacrifices - paining, difficult travel to training and matches, and unrelenting belief in young Romelu’s potential. At just six years old, Lukaku returned home after lunch to find his mother diluting milk and realised life was far from easy. But instead of falling into despair, he resolved to change his destiny through football. This spark of determination lit a fire in him that would never burn out. Lukaku’s journey through youth academies - from local clubs like Rupel Boom and Lierse to Anderlecht was meteoric. By the time he signed his first professional contract at sixteen, he was already a legend in training grounds, scoring relentlessly and carrying a dream that reached far beyond Belgium. But fame came with trials. After moving to Chelsea in 2011, he struggled for minutes, prompting loans, including a breakout spell at Everton. It was at Everton that Lukaku silenced critics by racking up goals, as he channelled the pain and pressure into performance. Each setback only propelled him forward. His career later took him to Manchester United, then to Inter Milan and back to Chelsea, before settling at Napoli in 2024. Lukaku’s tenacity earned him Serie A titles, MVP awards, and the status of Belgium’s all-time top goalscorer - an achievement that reflected not just skill, but relentless perseverance. Most recently, in August 2025, Lukaku suffered a serious thigh injury during a pre‑season friendly, sustaining a high-grade injury to his rectus femoris muscle. He has begun rehabilitation and may require surgery. Napoli now faces a three‑to‑four‑month absence without him and may look for reinforcements to cover his absence. This latest setback echoes his past challenges and knowing Lukaku, his return will be unstoppable. Throughout his journey, Lukaku was never alone. Coaches like Antonio Conte have been pivotal. Lukaku himself named Conte among four coaches who changed his life, demonstrating the value of mentorship, belief, and leadership in his growth-qualities that align perfectly with what 8lete stands for. This is where 8lete steps in. By offering structured mentorship, training resources, mental resilience coaching, and guidance from those who have walked the path before, 8lete ensures that young athletes don’t have to wait for luck or sacrifices from their parents. Like Lukaku, they can rise from obscurity, sharpen their talent, lean on mentors, and chase greatness with confidence. Romelu Lukaku’s life is a testament to what purposeful support, unwavering belief, and personal grit can achieve. 8lete embodies that blueprint - empowering young dreamers, especially those from challenging backgrounds, to write their own success stories. Just as Lukaku turned every hardship into fuel, 8lete helps athletes turn potential into purpose and adversity into achievement.
