Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly responded to Alexis Sanchez's calls after requesting to return to the Emirates.
Sanchez spent four years at Arsenal before joining Man United in 2018. He scored 80 goals in 166 appearances and was one of the best players in the team.
21:59 - 18.06.2023
FOOTBALL Arsenal’s Balogun holds talks with club on future amidst Juventus links
The Arsenal striker has held talks with regards to his future following a fruitful loan spell at Reims
The Chilean attacker struggled to live up to expectations at Old Trafford, scoring just five goals in 45 games after being traded for Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
This season, Sanchez has experienced a comeback, scoring 18 goals in 44 games for Marseille to help the French team finish third in Ligue 1 and qualify for the Champions League.
However, he is keen to return to England and has reportedly spoken to Mikel Arteta for a possible return to Arsenal but he was given a swift rejection of his request to rejoin the club by his former colleague.
Alexis Sanchez request denied
According to the Chilean newspaper La Tercera as reported by Daily Mail, the 34-year-old called Arteta to ask for a free transfer back to Arsenal this summer while he considers his alternatives.
It was asserted that Arteta responded to Sanchez's request in a direct manner. According to reports, the Spanish told his former teammate that the club wanted younger players as it looks to fight for the title and that he did not fit into their plans.
15:09 - 18.06.2023
Thomas Partey set to leave Arsenal as club place priority in Declan Rice
Reports claim a host Premier League clubs are lining up to sign Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey. The Gunners are focusing their attention on Declan Rice who is valued around £100m.
Arteta is currently looking to bring in young players with enough energy to the team and is currently in the transfer market.
Alexis Sanchez's profile does not meet Arteta’s criteria and has denied the request of his former teammate.
Sanchez speaks of Arsenal playing days
Sanchez spoke about his memories with Arsenal during their Champions League clash with Tottenham last season.
As reported by Daily Mail, Sanchez said, “I have great affection for Arsenal and great memories from my time there and beating Spurs, every time it was very special. These are memories I hold close to my heart and cherish.”
15:04 - 18.06.2023
Emile Smith Rowe speaks about his future at Arsenal
Emile Smith Rowe, who could not get a single Premier League start last season, has spoken out regarding his future with Arsenal.
Throughout his playing career under Arsene Wenger, Sanchez was a vital part of helping Arsenal win two FA Cups.
The forward has gone on to win the Serie A title and the Coppa Italia with Inter Milan before joining Marseille at the start of last season.