It’s official now- the long, protracted transfer saga between Manchester United and Arsenal for Alexis Sanchez and Henrikh Mkhitaryan has finally reached its inevitable conclusion. Sunday brought images of Sanchez appearing for the first time in a red United shirt, as well as his departing for Manchester in order to undergo his medical.
And now, just mere minutes ago, United made the official announcement, signaling that the deal is now done. The hash tag is #Alexis7 as he’ll retain the same number that he wore at Arsenal.
The perfect #MondayMotivation! ?
@Alexis_Sanchez #Alexis7 pic.twitter.com/XV1u2VOHvr— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 22, 2018
Obviously, it’s the most magical number of all in MUFC lore.
Throughtout the storied history of United, number 7 has been the numeral most assocaited with greatness. It’s been worn by legends Eric Cantona, George Best, Bryan Robson, Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham.
In a statement posted on the club official’s website, Alexis Sanchez is quoted:
“I am thrilled to be joining the biggest club in the world. I have spent three-and-a-half wonderful years at Arsenal and I bring with me very positive memories of that great club and its fans. The chance to play in this historic stadium and to work with Jose Mourinho was something I could not turn down.”
“I am very proud to be the first Chilean player ever to play for United’s first team and I hope I can show our fans all around the world why the club wanted to bring me here.”
We are delighted to announce the signing of @Alexis_Sanchez from Arsenal.
Full details: https://t.co/nUitNnNbV9 pic.twitter.com/S3ft22e7Jo
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 22, 2018
The statement attributed to United manager Jose Mourinho, welcoming Sanchez and saying farewell to Mkhitaryan reads:
“Alexis is one of the best attacking players in the world and he will complete our very young and talented group of attacking players.
“He will bring his ambition, drive and personality, qualities that make a Manchester United player and a player that makes the team stronger and the supporters proud of their club dimension and prestige.
“I would like to wish Henrikh all the success and happiness that I am sure he is going to get. He is a player that we will not forget, especially for his contribution to our Europa League victory.”
The first time to see Alexis Sanchez play in a United shirt might come Friday in the FA Cup fourth round versus Yeovil Town. His first opportunity for a Premier League debut in a Red Devils shirt will come a week from Wednesday at Tottenham Hotspur.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, which is partnered with News Now. Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times, NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, currently contributes regularly to WGN CLTV and the Tribune company’s blogging community Chicago Now.
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