So finally, here we are!
Alexis Sanchez’s transfer saga has been no short of a mystery thriller. Initially expected to join his former boss Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, a certain turnaround of events has seen him opting for their arch-rivals Manchester United instead. The Chilean had failed to complete a move to Manchester City on the deadline day last summer as Arsenal had failed to land Thomas Lemar as a replacement.
However, as January neared there was speculation that Pep would form an unstoppable attack by buying Sanchez as soon as possible. Unfortunately, that was not the case as a late swoop by Jose Mourinho’s side saw the Red Devils convince the two time FA Cup winner to choose them. Learning from their past mistakes, Arsenal did not play easy this time. The Gunners have often failed to replace their star players but Arsene Wenger played some hardball with Jose Mourinho this time around.
The two managers have never shared a positive relationship and so there were obvious apprehensions before this deal took place. Alexis had stated in the summer that he wants to play for a club that plays in the Champions League. On the other hand, Henrikh Mkhitaryan has cut a forlorn figure for the past three months at Old Trafford.
After starting the season in a fascinating manner in which he assisted five times over the first three games, he has failed to leave a mark for a long time. His tendency to fade away in the games, important games, did not go down well with Jose as the gaffer publicly lambasted him for disappearing from matches.
The Armenian has since been in and out of the matchday squads as local lad Jesse Lingard has consistently put up inspiring performances in the number 10 position.
However, arguably, a stint in England would provide him with greater opportunities to restamp his authority one of the most creative playmakers in Europe.
This deal has surpassed expectations and our very own Twitteratti was not left behind while placing their opinions!
What a steal it was for the Red Devils; left everyone flabbergasted…
Do whatever you like? Challenge accepted. #mufc #alexis7 #afc pic.twitter.com/r9ftjgXDXH
— Mike Hyslop (@Hysloop) January 22, 2018
Ouch!
*My first day at training with Man United*
De Gea: “Why are you crying, #Alexis7 ?”
Alexis: “It’s just.. I played you a wonderful curling shot and you caught without any problem. I’m so..”
De Gea: “I know, I know. You’re safe now. All of us here are actually good players.”
— #Alexis7 (@DeadlySanchez7) January 23, 2018
All you atheists need to be careful about what you think!
Alexis Sanchez moved from 6th to 2nd position without playing a football game.
Is God not wonderful???#AlexIS7
— ismail innocent (@92ideas) January 23, 2018
The Gooners would nail the Spelling-Bee competition!
Just when Arsenal fans had learnt to spell the names of Sead Kolasinac, Shkodran Mustafi and Konstantinos Mavropanos,nature has conspired to give them Henrikh Mkhitaryan. #Alexis7 @wgkantai
— That Guy (@IAmWangai) January 22, 2018
When you swipe left to some big managers…
Sanchez officially sliding into United like… #Alexis7 pic.twitter.com/yxjAUOAmOq
— Man Utd Updates (@utds_updates) January 22, 2018
The fans at Manchester have been excited, and for all the good reasons!
Woke up this morning feeling fine, got Man United on my mind, Jose’s playing the way that United should, oh yeah! #alexis7 #mufc pic.twitter.com/w1oiPodokZ
— United Xtra (@utdxtra) January 23, 2018
The number 7 shirt certainly brings in some unparalleled chills, doesn’t it?
“When they told me that Cristiano. Cantona, Beckham had all worn it, just thinking about that number seven sets you off dreaming in your head with ideas about lifting the Champions League trophy and winning the Premier League title.”
– Alexis Sanchez on no.7 jersey. #Alexis7 pic.twitter.com/1Q39VpHhYT
— Players Sayings (@PlayersSayings) January 22, 2018
The Gooners really need to control their emotions, and of everyone else’s around them!
Arsenal fans, y’all need to check on Piers Morgan before he does something silly. Depression is real ?? #Alexis7 pic.twitter.com/ep0K6pBSLq
— ALI, 4D KULTURR (@Ali_McHenri) January 23, 2018
The swoop of Alexis Sanchez is an ample indication of the fact that any club’s rich history and heritage remain important factors in any player’s decisions! This one for City…
RT to annoy Manchester City fans. ??#Alexis7 #MUFC #AlexisSanchez #Alexis #Sanchez #SanchezIsRed pic.twitter.com/HTYEHERcEV
— Mero Football (@MeroFootball) January 22, 2018
We would like to wish Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Alexis Sanchez loads of success in their new clubs…
Can’t end this piece without the unveiling video of Alexis Sanchez, can I?
? Ladies and gentlemen, please take your seats. Introducing #Alexis7…#GGMU #MUFC @Alexis_Sanchez pic.twitter.com/t9RIIx4mE4
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 22, 2018