Alexis Sanchez ends Paris break with Eiffel Tower visit as Arsenal forward prepares for return to training ahead of new season

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Alexis Sanchez enjoyed the last moments of his holiday with a trip to the Eiffel Tower as he prepared to return to Arsenal training this week.

The forward had been enjoying an extended break following his Copa America exploits, where he scored the winning penalty for Chile in the final against Argentina. 

Sanchez missed the Gunners' 1-0 Community Shield victory against Chelsea on Sunday at Wembley, but seemed to be enjoying his time off as he ate dinner with his brother and a friend in the French capital.

Alexis Sanchez (centre) took to Instagram to show himself enjoying the sites of Paris

Arsenal forward Sanchez enjoyed dinner with his brother and a friend before returning to training

Sanchez has not played for Arsenal since he scored in the Gunners' FA Cup final win against Aston Villa

Sanchez missed Arsenal's Community Shield victory against Chelsea as he recovers from the Copa America

The 26-year-old took to Instagram to post a picture of himself having a drink outside, as he prepared to get back down to business at London Colney.

Speaking about Sanchez's return last month, Arsene Wenger confirmed that the £30million man will miss Sunday's Premier League opener against West Ham.

'Usually it takes three weeks to be competitive,' said Wenger. 'With Alexis it could be a little bit less. He will certainly miss the first game.

'He went into the Copa America a little bit jaded but when he had to turn up in the final he was there, always dangerous, always provoking opponents and the one with the guts to take the final penalty.

Sanchez has been staying in shape during his break but he will miss Sunday's game against West Ham

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes it could take Sanchez less than three weeks of training to be match fit

Sanchez, pictured scoring against Stoke at the Emirates last season, could face Crystal Palace on August 16

'He contributed to a historic achievement. It is something special they have done and he was a big part of it.' 

Sanchez, who also posted a photo of himself holding the Community Shield last year to Instagram, could return for Arsenal's first away game of the season at Crystal Palace on August 16.

After visiting Selhurst Park the Gunners host Liverpool at the Emirates on August 24 before travelling north to take on Newcastle five days later.