Barcelona sporting director Txiki Begiristain told Spanish television that the club wouldn't seek a player that decided to leave on his own.

"You take a risk when you leave Barcelona. Now, he (Fabregas) can't return," Begiristain said.

"He could have been playing with the first team now."

Fabregas, only at 16, opted for a move to Arsenal, where Arsene Wenger gave him a rare opportunity to feature for the first team.

He quickly became one of the Gunners pivotal players, especially after Patrick Vieira's move to Juventus.

Fabregas became a regular in the Spanish national team is tipped to compete for the European Footballer of the Year in 2008.

Barca and Real Madrid were reportedly seeking his signature.

Begiristain said Barcelona have a good example in Bojan, who turned down a move to England earlier and now features regularly in Frank Rijkaard's side.

"Bojan is an example. He had faith and did not go to England," Begiristain added.

The 20-year-old star still has six years on his current contract with Arsenal.

He committed his future to the Londoners after Wenger signed a new three-year deal in the summer.