Arsenal - Sanchez: Has the time come to say goodbye?

(Baonghean.vn) - Recently, there have been many rumors regarding whether the Chilean striker will stay or leave. It is highly likely that Sanchez's departure from Emirates Stadium is imminent, as Manchester City and PSG have publicly expressed their desire to acquire the signature of the 1988-born star.

In his latest statement, Sanchez affirmed: “I want to play in the Champions League. I know my future intentions very well. The decision now is not up to me but to Arsenal. I have made my decision, now I am waiting for Arsenal's answer. My idea is to play and win in the Champions League. I have dreamed of it since I was a child.”

This is no surprise to anyone, including Arsenal fans. For a star of Sanchez's caliber, the desire to win prestigious titles is perfectly understandable. Over the years, the Chilean player has consistently demonstrated his talent and influence at the Emirates Stadium, yet Arsenal have remained trophyless (Premier League, Champions League).

Sanchez no longer wants to stay with Arsenal following offers from PSG and Manchester City. Photo: Internet

Furthermore, Arsenal didn't even qualify for the Champions League in the 2017/2018 season. It's no surprise Sanchez is disappointed. Witnessing the heavy investment from Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, etc., the goal of winning the Premier League seems quite far-fetched for Arsenal. At the end of his prime, Sanchez can't wait for any more prestigious trophies.

Responding to his player's statement, manager Wenger asserted: “The decision has been made. Alexis is not for sale and we must abide by that decision. The media misinterpreted his statement. In my understanding, Alexis didn't really mean it that way. Arsenal have been in the Champions League for 20 years, including 17 years before Alexis arrived and 3 years with him. Therefore, Alexis can help us return to this prestigious competition.”

The French manager's firm stance is unlikely to prevent Sanchez from leaving. As is known, the former Barcelona player's contract with Arsenal only has one year left. Keeping Sanchez means Arsenal will lose the striker for free next June. Furthermore, in January 2018, Sanchez will have the option to buy out his contract and move to another team freely.

Clearly, with Sanchez's market value at around £50-70 million, Arsenal's management wouldn't be foolish enough to "throw money away." It's better to let Sanchez leave the Emirates Stadium and use the money to invest in other targets. Lemar and Mbappe (AS Monaco) are excellent replacements for the void Sanchez leaves.

Manager Wenger needs to find a replacement for Sanchez at Arsenal. Photo: Internet

Furthermore, keeping a player who has lost their motivation to contribute is extremely dangerous. Being forced to continue playing for Arsenal will prevent Sanchez from maintaining his best form. This will have a significant negative impact on his teammates, making it even more difficult for Arsenal in the race against Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, and others.

Therefore, Wenger's insistence on keeping Sanchez is merely a tactic to drive up the price for the 29-year-old striker. A strategist as financially as Wenger is unlikely to miscalculate. If Sanchez wants to join another team, Arsenal's attempts to hold him back will only do more harm than good; a separation is inevitable.

Thanh Hung