When Did Alexis Sanchez Leave Barcelona?
Alexis Sanchez, the talented Chilean forward, had a brief but impactful stint at Barcelona before moving on to other clubs. Let’s take a closer look at when he left the Catalan giants and how his departure impacted both his career and the club.
The Arrival of Alexis Sanchez
Alexis Sanchez joined Barcelona in July 2011, signing a five-year contract with the Spanish powerhouse. The transfer fee amounted to around €26 million, making him one of the most expensive signings in Barcelona’s history at that time.
Sanchez quickly established himself as an integral part of Barcelona’s attacking force. His blistering speed, technical skills, and ability to score goals made him an instant fan favorite. Paired with Lionel Messi and David Villa in a formidable attacking trio, Sanchez contributed significantly to Barcelona’s success during his tenure.
The Departure from Barcelona
After three successful seasons at Barcelona, Alexis Sanchez left the club in July 2014. He made a move to Arsenal in the English Premier League for a reported fee of around €42 million.
This departure came as a surprise to many Barcelona fans who had come to adore his playing style and contributions on the field. However, it was speculated that Sanchez wanted more playing time and felt he would have better opportunities for personal growth at Arsenal.
The Impact on Alexis Sanchez’s Career
Alexis Sanchez’s move to Arsenal proved to be a turning point in his career. The Chilean forward flourished under Arsene Wenger’s guidance and became one of the top performers in the Premier League.
During his time at Arsenal, Sanchez showcased his versatility by playing as both a winger and center-forward. His incredible work rate, dribbling ability, and eye for goal earned him numerous accolades, including two FA Cup triumphs.
Sanchez’s success at Arsenal attracted attention from other top clubs, eventually leading him to join Manchester United in January 2018.
The Impact on Barcelona
Barcelona felt the void left by Alexis Sanchez’s departure. His dynamic playing style and ability to create scoring opportunities were sorely missed. Despite signing other talented forwards, it took some time for Barcelona to find a player who could replicate Sanchez’s impact on the team.
Nevertheless, Barcelona continued their winning ways and went on to achieve further success both domestically and internationally in subsequent seasons.
In Conclusion
Alexis Sanchez left Barcelona in July 2014 to join Arsenal. His departure marked a significant moment in his career as he went on to establish himself as one of the best forwards in the English Premier League.
While his absence was felt at Barcelona, the club continued to thrive without him. Sanchez’s time at Barcelona remains a memorable chapter in his journey as a footballer.