Alexis Sanchez might have some Arsenal fans confused about where his loyalties lie, as the Chilean took to social network site Instagram to thank former club Barcelona. The Catalans have travelled to London to take on the Gunners ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash tonight, and Sanchez took the opportunity to voice his gratitude.
Writing on Instagram, Alexis had this to say “I want to thank FCB, the doctors and the physiotherapists who cared for me during my stay in Barcelona and especially the players with whom I shared beautiful moments.”
“But life carries on and my present is with Arsenal, my home, my family and I'm so happy to be a Gunner.”
Arsenal fans might be happy that the Chilean signed off that he is ‘happy’ to be at Arsenal, since as they face the might of Barcelona in tonight’s Champions League Round-of-16 clash, they will need Sanchez to be at his very best. The former Barcelona man enjoyed a stunning season last year, but has failed to replicate his form this season, as injuries and a gruelling schedule after his Copa America success last year have hindered Sanchez in his quest to find form.
Wenger will 'refocus' Sanchez
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is a little concerned about the state of Alexis’ form of late, as the Chilean has struggled to score, while most notably failing to make an impact when he came on in Arsenal’s last game, a 0-0 draw in the FA Cup at home to Hull City.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Wenger said “He will be fired up, but that doesn't mean he will be in the right zone. The zone of performance is a zone where you are focused and relaxed, and that is what's difficult in sport.”
“Sometimes when you're too focused, you're not relaxed. It's a zone where everything looks easy, and sometimes when you play against your former club you're not necessarily in that zone.” However, Wenger noted that he would have a ‘little talk’ with Sanchez ahead of the game, so that the Chilean can be at the peak of his powers.
The Arsenal manager, for his part, is well aware that he cannot rely on Sanchez alone, saying “Sanchez can help us to win the game. But I know that not one player will win us the game. We need a top-level team performance, where every body is spot on in the discipline and sharp physically and ready to work for the team. We need all our players.”
