SANCHEZ TELLS WHY HE QUIT
ALEXIS SANCHEZ has revealed the opportunity “to work with Jose Mourinho” was one of the driving factors in his decision to leave Arsenal for Manchester United. In his first interview as a Manchester United player, Sanchez said he was “thrilled” to move to Old Trafford and spoke of his delight at linking up with Mourinho. “I am thrilled to be joining the biggest club in the world,” he told the club’s official website. “I have spent three-and-a-half wonderful years at Arsenal and I bring with me very positive memories of that great club and its fans. The chance to play in this historic stadium and to work with Jose Mourinho was something I could not turn down. I am very proud to be the first Chilean player ever to play for United’s first team and I hope I can show our fans all around the world why the club wanted to bring me here.”
after Alexis Sanchez claimed the Frenchman inspired him to leave the club for Manchester United. After United confirmed the swap deal, Sanchez took to Instagram where he thanked Arsenal’s fans before revealing Henry’s involvement in the transfer. “I remember today, a conversation I had with Henry, a historic Arsenal player, who changed club for the same reason and today is my turn,” he wrote. Unsurprisingly, Arsenal supporters were less than impressed to learn Henry had supposedly played a part in Sanchez’s decision to leave the club, with many venting their frustration on Twitter. “Henry speaking to Alexis about leaving the club for better things…” one wrote. “Not my legend.” Another fan simply wrote: “Take Henry’s statue down.”
Mourinho waxed lyrical about Sanchez having secured a player who he believes will significantly boost United’s attack: “Alexis is one of the best attacking players in the world and he will complete our very young and talented group of attacking players. He will bring his ambition, drive and personality, qualities that make a Manchester United player and a player that makes the team stronger and the supporters proud of their club dimension and prestige.” And the Portuguese also reserved praise for the departing Mkhitaryan, whose unhappy 18 months in Manchester is over but who played a crucial part in last season’s Europa League victory, scoring in four consecutive knockout games. “I would like to wish Henrikh all the success and happiness that I am sure he is going to get. He is a player that we will not forget, especially for his contribution to our Europa League victory.”