Arsenal superstar Alexis Sanchez is fresh from winning the first Copa America title in Chile’s history, however, date for his Emirates return has been decided as well.
According to the reports, Sanchez is tipped to return in London on 27th July, meaning he will miss the first four Premier League matches for the Gunners.
This was Arsene Wenger’s prime concern ahead of the Copa America 2015. Ahead of the tournament, Wenger had said: “That is not good news (for Arsenal) because they (Chile) finish very late and if they go very far, he will miss the start of the season.”
Unfortunately, Wenger’s fears were realized as Chile went all the way to win the whole thing and Sanchez, as expected played every minute for his country.
This came after being heavily involved with Arsenal last season where he was feeling a burned out due to playing too much and Wenger often stressed that his star forward was in red zone in terms of fitness.
Arsenal are well aware that, Sanchez needs rest and he will be needed when the season decided to take shape in latter months of the season.
For now, Sanchez will miss first 5 games of the season including the Community shield tie against Chelsea.
Games which Sanchez will miss are:
August 2 – vs. Chelsea (N) – Community Shield
August 9 – vs. West Ham (H) – Premier League
August 16 – vs. Crystal Palace (A) – Premier League
August 24 – vs. Liverpool (H) – Premier League
August 29 – vs. Newcastle (A) – Premier League
Manager Arsene Wenger will be hopeful that Danny Welbeck and Alex Ox Chamberlin could step up and make the most of this opportunity. Those two along with Theo Walcott will be the ideal replacement for Alexis Sanchez while he will be on rest after a long long season.