Arsene Wenger is hoping his decision to grant Alexis Sanchez and extended holiday will produce his best form this season.
Sanchez, who won the Copa America during the summer, also claimed the prestigious Golden Ball accolade as a reward for the Arsenal attacker’s fine form throughout the tournament.
The 27-year-old Chilean has had very little rest over the past two years due to the lack of winter break in England coupled with his international duties and, as Sanchez prepares for his Arsenal return, Wenger is backing his decision.
‘The problem with Sanchez is to be cautious with him because it’s nearly impossible,’ Wenger said. ‘But you know what I did, I gave him a long break because I know that this was needed for him.
‘They played two Copa Americas in a row and in England you don’t have a winter break. He got an injury. I know as well that you give Sanchez five weeks holiday, he will stay quiet one week and after he will start to run everywhere, and he comes back fit.
‘I hope I got it right, that he had a good rest and regenerated a little bit, because he looks alright. We will see on Sunday.’
Alexis Sanchez is set to make his first pre-season appearance in a friendly against Manchester City in Gothenburg on Sunday.
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