Alexis Sanchez has revealed that a stern chat with club legend Thierry Henry helped convince him the time was right to leave Arsenal.
As you may be aware, the Chilean joined Manchester United yesterday after coming to the conclusion that future silverware will be easier to come by at “the biggest club in the world”.
Henry left the Emirates for Barcelona in similar circumstances back in 2007 on the back of three trophy-less seasons with the Gunners, and promptly won two La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey and the Champions League in the space of two years.
As part of his obligatory social media farewell message, Sanchez mentioned that Henry at least partially informed his decision to move on…
The Insta-statement reads:
I want to say thanks to the technical staff, to the medical team and to all my teammates with whom I shared many nice things, and especially all those people who do not see themselves on magazine covers, but without them nothing would be possible.
The people who prepare food for us and take care of us day to day, who keep our boots clean and the grass in the best condition. Many thanks to you all for helping us to improve every day. Thank you very much.
There are people (former Arsenal players) who have spoken with no knowledge of what happens inside this club and caused great damage. I must say I always gave 100 percent until the last day, when I asked the manager to be in the team because I wanted to make a contribution.
Then comes the Henry bit:
I remember today a conversation I had with (Thierry) Henry, a historic Arsenal player, who changed clubs for the same reason as me. Today is my turn.
Thanks for everything, Gunners! All we achieved and the good moments that I gave to the club, I want to dedicate to the fans – they are the most important.
Thanks for every time you sang ‘Alexis Sanchez Baby’.
Of course, this has led to a number of supposed Arsenal supporters branding Henry, the club’s record goal-scorer and best ever player, a ‘snake’ on social media because… well, they’re predictable, reactionary morons.
Sometimes the truth hurts and the only paltry defence you’ve got at your disposal is your snake emoji.