Alexis Sanchez has hit out at former Arsenal players who criticised him “with no knowledge of what happens inside the club” after completing his move to Manchester United.
Sanchez was unveiled as the Red Devils new signing on Monday evening, pronouncing himself “thrilled to be joining the biggest club in the world”, as Henrikh Mkhitaryan moved in the opposite direction.
The announcement represented a remarkable volte-face from a player who had desperately hoped to join Manchester City, coming within hours of a move in August, only for Pep Guardiola’s side to refuse to match Arsenal’s demands.
Martin Keown labelled the Chilean “the biggest mercenary in football” for opting for City’s Manchester rivals and he has not been the only pundit to question Sanchez, particularly over recent months, when he has been far from his explosive best.
“There are people (former club players) who have spoken with no knowledge of what happens inside the club and cause damage,” Sanchez wrote on Instagram.
“I must say I always gave 100 per cent, until the last day, when I asked to the Mister [Wenger] to be in the team, because I wanted to be a contribution [sic].”
Over three-and-a-half seasons at Arsenal Sanchez established himself as one of the Premier League’s most formidable forwards, scoring 80 goals and laying on 46 assists in 166 appearances, though the Gunners themselves struggled to keep pace with their domestic rivals, particularly in the final years of his stay.
In Pictures | Alexis Sanchez joins Manchester United | 22/01/2018
Sanchez will ultimately be disappointed to have departed the club with only two FA Cups to his name and the acrimonious nature of his exit will leave some supporters with a sour taste in their mouths.
“Gracias por todo Gunners !” Sanchez added. “I want to say thanks to the technical staff, to the medical team and all teammates with whom I shared many nice things for the club and especially those people who do not see themselves on the covers, but without them nothing would be possible, who are there to prepare food for us and take care of us day by day, those who keep our shoes clean and the grass in the best conditions.
“Many thanks to you for helping us to improve every day. Thank you very much.”
He added: “Thanks for everything Gunners! All we achieved and the good moments that I gave to the club, I want to dedicate it to the fans, they are the most important. Thanks for every time you sing Alexis Sanchez Baby.”