Share

Wenger to make last-minute decision on Sanchez

London - Arsene Wenger will make a last-minute decision on Alexis Sanchez’s involvement against Manchester United this weekend.

Sanchez scored twice for Chile during their World Cup qualifying victory over Uruguay in midweek, despite worries that he had suffered a hamstring injury while away on international duty.

The striker is due to return to Arsenal training and Gunners boss Wenger - who is already without the services of Hector Bellerin and Santi Cazorla - will run the rule over the 27-year-old before he considers his participation in Saturday’s encounter against United.

Wenger said: “We didn't know whether or not he would play 24 hours before the Uruguay game. In the end they decided to play him.

“He texted us saying he was in good shape after the game but we have to wait.

“I will see him on Friday morning and if he can be involved in the squad or not. What I will consider is basically the risk of injury.”

Fourth-placed Arsenal are six points ahead of Manchester United in the Premier League table, yet Wenger has failed to beat opposite number Jose Mourinho in their 13 competitive meetings, leading to several incidents between the pair.

"I don't think I have to describe our relationship. He will fight for his team and I will fight for mine and that is normal. Of course, I will shake his hand," Wenger said.

"I will respect the ritual in the Premier League... It's not the controversy that makes the audience, it's the quality of the game."

The two managers have had a history of confrontations with Mourinho famously labelling the Frenchman as a specialist in failure, while on another occasion a touchline argument turned physical.

Kickoff is at 1430.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE