THANKS for the memories Alexis – but it’s time to say goodbye.
I was one of many Arsenal fans who called the Sanchez saga wrong in the summer. I was desperate for him to stay, and thought it was a show in ambition doing so.
However, four months into the season, it feels like the incorrect move.
Alexis Sanchez – linked with a £50million Manchester City switch – is a fantastic player. Up there with Mesut Ozil as Arsenal’s best. But he comes with baggage.
It’s been said that he isn’t exactly flavour of the month at the training ground – ticking off players and staff alike.
This included a heated row with a member of Arsene Wenger’s coaching staff during October.
In addition, his individualistic style of play is also of concern. In terms of numbers, he is a phenomenon. Terrific goals and assist output, and a grafter by nature.
But he tries to do too much.
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When Arsenal relied on his individual brilliance, there was no question of his importance.
However this season, the Gunners’ free-flowing football has returned. They are progressive in possession, incisive with the pass and free with their movement.
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This has been helped by the arrival of Alexandre Lacazette at the top of Arsenal’s front line – adding much more structure to the attacking play.
But what the return of Wengerball has also highlighted, is how poor Alexis is in possession.
He was dispossessed over 30 times on Saturday, despite Arsenal having 75 per cent possession. He also lost the ball for United’s counter attack leading to the third goal – something the Gunners are much more susceptible to when playing this way.
There’s no doubt that Sanchez does add to this side and is a winner – however it feels like it has now come to a point where a change is needed for both player and club.
Wengerball is back – and now that it is, keeping Ozil and Aaron Ramsey is much more critical to the future of Arsenal football club, and throwing resources behind these two players instead of Alexis should be a priority.
The Chilean has been a fantastic player for The Arsenal and has put up some sensational numbers.
He has also scored some crucial goals – including two in FA Cup finals – and we will always remember him for them.
However for the team – on and off the pitch – selling him in January and replacing him with the likes of Thomas Lemar or Nabil Fekir, would be the right thing to do.
Twitter @AFCAMDEN
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