Mikel Arteta 'rejects Alexis Sanchez's plea' to rejoin Arsenal during phone call
Alexis Sanchez became an Arsenal icon before leaving the north Londoners for Man Utd in controversial fashion - but he has since gushed over the club and pleaded for a return
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Mikel Arteta has reportedly rejected Alexis Sanchez’s plea to rejoin Arsenal in a private phone call.
Sanchez was a fan favourite at the Emirates Stadium during his three-and-a-half year spell with the club between 2014 and 2018. He scored 80 goals in 166 appearances while guiding the Gunners to two FA Cup triumphs.
The Chilean left on a sour note as reports of clashes with teammates were followed by his move to rivals Manchester United in a swap deal for Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Now at Marseille, the 34-year-old has phoned Arsenal manager Arteta in an attempt to secure a move back to north London - only to be rejected by the Spaniard.
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| 📷Alexis Sanchez 'begged' to return to Arsenal in a phone call (Image: AFP via Getty Images) |
Chilean outlet La Tercera reported that the call took place last week with Sanchez “begging” his former team-mate to bring him back.
“These are memories I hold close to my heart and cherish.”
But the forward received a “direct” response from Arteta, who explained how Sanchez did not fit into his plans. Arteta is instead keen to continue building a squad full of upcoming talents, which is among the youngest in the Premier League.
The Gunners boss is widely reported to be pursuing a £60million deal for Chelsea forward Kai Havertz, 24, as his sole attacking signing this summer.
Meanwhile, Sanchez will turn his attention to a move elsewhere as his Marseille contract expires at the end of the month.
The former Barcelona and Inter Milan star still has the option to remain with the Ligue 1 side, who are eager to retain his services. He netted 18 goals in all competitions in his successful first season with Marseille.
The Chilean report also claims there is interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Serie A giants Juventus. Saudi Arabian clubs could also look to sign the former Copa America champion.
Okeke George Chijioke
When you don't see Okeke George blogging, he sure will engage him self in sporting activities.
