5 Facts About New Gunner Alexis Sanchez

Following on from Arsenal’s stunning purchase of Alexis Sanchez, Gunner333 gives us five facts about the former Barcelona attacker….

Amidst the hype generated by Arsenal’s recent acquisition, Alexis Sanchez, I have decided to compile a list of interesting facts relating to the Chilean forward. From goals scored to what awards he’s picked up along the way, this new signing hints at being one of Wenger’s greatest ever, should Alexis live up to the high standards associated with him…

1. Most Expensive Chilean

In Sanchez’ previous moves across-continent, he has warranted a rather hefty price-tag. So much so, that he etched himself into the football history books, mainly the Chilean variety. After various loan spells across South America, Sanchez made the switch to Italy’s top flight at Udinese Calcio. Three surprisingly impressive years later, he was snapped up by Barcelona for a value of €26million, making him the most expensive Chilean footballer of all time, a feat that only comes with a true talent.

2. Clinical In Spain

His most recent season in La Liga was arguably his best campaign at the Nou Camp and this is no more so evident than from one particular statistic. With 19 goals from just 61 shots, Alexis had the greatest chance conversion rate in the Spanish top division in the 2013/14 season. This bodes well for a side like Arsenal, who are sure to create plenty of chances for the player.

3. The Chosen Club

Up until the addition of Sanchez, Arsenal’s Summer business had looked somewhat embarrassing, with no-one brought in, as the Gunner’s rivals splashed the cash on the likes of Costa, Fabregas, Shaw and Lallana. However, with the inevitable departure of Suarez to Barcelona, Alexis Sanchez was sacrificed and, after sparking interests from across the border, he chose Arsenal ahead of both Liverpool and Juventus respectively. To have a player of Sanchez’ ability eager to sign for the club is a great honour and we know he is a player that will play for the shirt, no matter what.

4. Good Talk- Praised By The Best

As well as being able to walk-the-walk, believe it or not, it can do wonders for a player to know what they’re talking about also and this is yet another quality that flourishes from within Sanchez’ overall personality.  Shortly after his move to Barcelona, the Chilean highlighted his eagerness to “learn from players like Lionel Messi and Xavi Hernandez”. He continued “I want to help the club win more titles”.

In addition, the determined forward also earned great praise from arguably the world’s greatest coach at the time, Pep Guardiola. The Spaniard described Alexis by claiming “he can play in all three attacking positions, he shows intensive skills”. Read into this what you may, but the very fact the forward played for Barca gives us some indication as to how talented this kid really is.

5. International Icon

It seems near-impossible to discuss Sanchez’ credentials without mentioning his international form, a vital factor in his switch to North-London. In his time for the Chilean International team, Sanchez has scored 24 in 71 appearances, with four arising in the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign and two in the competition itself. Sanchez is often looked to as the spearhead of the vivacious Chilean front-line and it is clearly evident as shown by his 100% appearance record in the 2010 World Cup Finals and his key showings in Brazil also. A leader from the front is what Arsenal have been desperate for and it seems we may now have our man…

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