Thierry Henry understands Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas' reported desire to return to Barcelona this summer.
Henry, the club's all-time leading goalscorer, left the Gunners to join Barca himself back in 2007.
The new Red Bulls New York striker has watched on with interest this summer while Fabregas has been the subject of one unsuccessful bid from the Spanish champions.
The 23-year-old midfielder is reported to have told manager Arsene Wenger of his desire to return to his former club and Henry can understand the lure of Barcelona.
"It is hard because the guy is from Barcelona. I wouldn't like to be in his shoes that's all I can say," he told BBC Radio Five's Sportsweek programme.
"I wouldn't like to be in his position because he is from there and he loves Arsenal. I don't know what to say about this because I don't want to talk for him.
"But as an Arsenal fan, for me, I want him to stay at Arsenal, but I would also understand if he goes back home."
Henry was unveiled by the Major League Soccer side on Thursday after being released by Barcelona and the former France striker has revealed he hopes to return to Arsenal one day.
The record-breaking 32-year-old scored 226 during 369 appearances during eight seasons with the north London club.
"What I want to do is when I retire, I don't know how, but I want to come back to Arsenal," he explained.
"I have just come here (New York) to play and to compete and win another title. After everything is done then I will think about it.
"Whatever it is I want to come back (to Arsenal), maybe as a waterboy, I just love this club."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email