Earlier in the week it was discussed amongst Arsenal fans just how Alexis Sanchez was at risk of burning out ahead of the upcoming season or even worse picking up an injury. After winning the Copa America for the second time in succession, our fears were proved to be true, with Alexis’ ending up with what looks to be a swollen ankle.
Alexis Sanchez won the Golden Ball for being the player of the tournament and put in an impressive final performance against Argentina to win the cup, but it came with a cost, as Alexis posted a picture to the world showing off a nasty looking ankle.
It was feared that Alexis may end up ‘burning out’ and what that could mean to Arsenal next season. Last year we saw how Alexis suffered from fatigue and it ultimately meant a big drop in form for one of Arsenal’s biggest stars. It was a costly period which surely had some effect on Arsenal’s season, as we would’ve surely performed to a higher standard with a player of Sanchez’s quality in the side.
Even though his current injury from last night seems to be a swollen ankle, it cannot be taken lightly. Alexis is in danger of suffering from fatigue again during the course of next season and so although we all recognise his passion and commitment to constantly training to be the best he can be, it’s vital that he now spends some time away from football resting, and this minor injury may just force him to actually give his body some well-earned recovery time. I’m sure that Wenger will give him some extended time off this summer anyway, before what is going to be another busy campaign, but at least this injury will keep Alexis away from training, for a little while at least!
By AH