SANCHEZ STAYS PUT

Chile winger Alexis Sanchez was one of the major arrivals for Barcelona a few years ago, but he has not been up to the standards expected of him after his € 35 million move from Udinese.

This has led to suggestions that he may be sold in the summer with the likes of Paris St Germain interested in him. The arrival of new manager Gerardo Martino also put his future in the major cloud of doubt, but the new manager coming has worked in the best possible manner for the 24-year-old. He has been an important part of the team since the arrival of Martino.

Now, he has thanked the South American for having the faith in him and keeping him in the team. He is confident of replacing his faith on a more regular basis. Sanchez has been part of four out of the five matches for Barcelona this season. He scored his first goal for the club this season in the 7-0 victory over Levante. This was the first league match for the Catalan giants, who will be keen to retain the league title that they won last season. Sanchez is currently on international duty with the Chilean national team, who will be playing against Spain in a friendly match.

“Martino has given me amazing confidence and that gives me more freedom in the country. People press me, waiting for me to make goals and assists, but I feel very comfortable this year, I am very confident. I have a great relationship with Lionel Messi, both on and off the pitch,” said Sanchez. Barcelona have also brought in Brazilian superstar Neymar £ 50 million, which was widely expected to spell the end of Sanchez’ time at the Camp Nou, but it has resulted in the departure of former Valencia striker David Villa.