There is some good news for Arsenal fans on our star striker Alexis Sanchez, because it was feared that the Chile international star could actually miss out on the FA cup final against Aston Villa at the end of May, but Arsene Wenger has apparently reached an agreement with Alexis’ national team.
As reported by Sky Sports there are FIFA regulations in place which state that a club must release its international players 14 days before the start of an international tournament if asked and the Copa America this summer kicks off on June 11th. But as long as he is fit, our star man will be at Wembley.
Not so good news though is the very strong likelihood that the former Barcelona forward will not be back in time to help Arsenal at the start of next season. Just like with the World Cup finals in Brazil last summer, Wenger will give his players a good break in order to recover and recharge their batteries.
The fact that Alexis’ country is hosting the tournament and the fact that they are a strong side makes it likely that Chile will be involved in the latter stages and it does not end until mid July. With the Premier League season starting early on August 8th, it is pretty much certain that the Gunners will have to start without him.
Wenger said, “They (Chile) could call him up. We got an agreement they won’t call him. Anyway I am sure he would not go (before the FA Cup final).
“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.”
The only other Arsenal player likely to be affected is our Brazilian defender Gabriel, if he is selected, unless of course the boss signs any more South American players this summer. At least our Premier League rivals Chelsea, Man City