Fabregas wears Barca shirt

The Arsenal captain was introduced to fans in Madrid by goalkeeper Pepe Reina, and as he stepped forward Barca skipper Carles Puyol held his arms while Gerard Pique put the red and blue shirt over his head.

Reina, himself a former Barcelona player, told fans the midfielder was: "The future of Barca and the future of Spain."

Fabregas laughed at the prank, but squirmed uncomfortably and covered his face.

He has been heavily linked with a big money switch to the Camp Nou, and has reportedly told Arsene Wenger he wants to leave the Emirates Stadium.

Fabregas, who set up Andres Iniesta's goal in the 1-0 extra time win over the Netherlands, dedicated his role in Spain's triumph to Arsenal.

He said: "This is for the Arsenal players, the Arsenal fans, the manager Arsene Wenger and all the staff. I am really proud to have been an Arsenal player. It is for all of them.

"They deserve it and they have a world champion at the club. I am an Arsenal player and I am really proud to be able to give this trophy to all the fans.

"I have had lots of texts and messages. My phone is full. I had a text from Arsene Wenger. He said 'Congratulations, you deserve it'. I replied 'Thank you very much' and told him this is for the whole of Arsenal Football Club, who have helped me get where I am today."