Chilean Alexis Sanchez criticises England's football academies

Alexis Sanchez says England are ‘soft’

Alexis Sanchez has claimed that England aren’t mentally strong enough to win the World Cup in Brazil next summer, going on to say that Roy Hodgson’s men have had too easy a ride in their youth, questioning how the academies of Arsenal and Man United do everything for their youngsters.

“I don’t think England can win the World Cup,” Sanchez told the Daily Express. “They have some very good players but are probably not at the level where they can beat the best.

“I used to wash cars for such little money just so I had enough money to buy my football boots. When you are at academies like Manchester United and Arsenal, then everything is just given to you.

“With countries like England, if you don’t make it as a professional football player then there are still many other opportunities, and you still have a chance to live a good life.”

The former Udinese man did reserve some praise for Wayne Rooney, however. Sanchez – who has 20 goals for his country – says he respects the way Rooney plays the game, complimenting the Manchester United forward on his determination and technique, but England cannot rely on one player to win them the World Cup.

“I do like Wayne Rooney. Of course, technically he is a very good player, but I also like his determination and resilience. I respect the way that he approaches the games.

“It will be very hard for any team outside of South America to win in Brazil, but if two teams have a chance, then it is Spain and Germany. Their teams are exceptional.”

Most England fans will be heading into the tournament hoping to go as far as possible, but most will know that winning the tournament outright is a longshot. However, Sanchez’s comments don’t really add up when you consider England’s recent performances against the top opposition; victories over Brazil, Italy and Spain in the past two years contradict the Chile international’s comments.

The Barcelona forward went on to say how he believes his own country must take advantage of the tournament being hosted in South America, meaning the big European nations may feel the effect of playing in humid conditions.

“We have to believe that Chile has a chance. It is not a home tournament but we must take advantage of it being in South America. We will not have to adjust to the conditions as much as other nations.”

Sanchez’s comments are sure to rile the England squad up ahead of Friday’s fixture and closing by calling European players ‘soft’ just means he will have to watch his back cum-matchday.

“It is not the fault of England or other European teams they did not grow up in an environment like that, but having everything so easy made them soft.”

Alexis Sanchez has scored 7 goals in 9 appearances in La Liga this season – all with his right foot.