Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted interest in Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez, but is there more to it than that?
It is of no coincidence that the Spanish boss was asked about the Chilean’s signature prior to the crunch semi-final clash at Wembley later on today, and most manager’s would usually respectfully decline to comment, but not today.
Alexis Sanchez is one of the most talked about players in the rumour mill this term, with only 12 months left on his contract come the end of the season, and he looks increasingly likely to be leaving the Emirates this summer.
There is still much football to play before the transfer window opens however, starting with the FA Cup semi-final, where he will be key in Wenger’s plans to overcome his former manager Guardiola, in order to seal a cup final place against potential suitors Chelsea, who eliminated Spurs yesterday.
Pep has claimed that all the big sides will be keeping tabs on Alexis Sanchez’s situation
‘Put Kevin De Bruyne with one year left on his contract and see how many teams [are interested],’ said the City manager.
‘How do big clubs improve their teams? With better players.
‘So of course big clubs around the world are going to know his situation.
‘When the big, big players go to Barcelona they understand that Lionel Messi is unique.
‘But Alexis is just one step below. Alexis is a fantastic player and I’m so happy how he’s playing at Arsenal, especially this year scoring goals.’
It remains to be be seen whether Alexis will move clubs, or whether he will sign a new deal in North-London, but Pep’s words will most definitely prove a distraction to the Chilean with his future undecided currently.
Is Pep out of order for discussing our player’s during the season? Is this sort of mind-games disgraceful?
Pat J