Why Arsenal’s Champions League hopes are in Alexis Sanchez’s hands

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Arsenal are facing what are arguably the most important 11 matches of their recent history. It is crucial that they secure Champions League football next season or they will risk taking a significant step back in their development. They may not be the most ambitious club in terms of spending money, but at least they have maintained their top four status in the league, providing a platform they can push on from. This summer is going to be massive for the Gunners and their future aspirations. If they don’t secure a top four finish, they will risk falling into England’s second tier of clubs.

Despite his uncertain future, Alexis Sanchez is the key to the Gunners securing a Champions League place this season. He is one of the best players in the league and he has become the main attacking threat in this Arsenal team. The Chilean has had a hand in 27 goals in 27 matches, meaning that he has been involved in 48% of the team’s goals in the Premier League. It is also impressive that he manages to either score or assist every match, on average. Although the team are struggling, the 28-year-old has to be in the running to win PFA Player of the Year.

This weekend is a must win match for Arsenal as they can’t afford to fall further behind the sides ahead of them. By the time that they walk out at the Emirates Stadium, they will know the results of both Liverpool and Manchester United’s latest fixtures, which could increase the pressure even more. Arsene Wenger’s men have only beaten a team in the top seven once this season, as they triumphed over Chelsea at home. However, this could be seen as a negative result as it led to Antonio Conte changing to a 3-4-3 formation and the Blues have been dominant ever since.

Sanchez himself has struggled in the big matches as well. In seven matches against the current top six, he has only scored once and contributed three assists. It doesn’t help that he plays for a team that struggles tactically and mentally against the best teams in the division, but as one of the key players in the side, he has to be doing more. His teammates look to him for inspiration and he doesn’t always step up when required. There is no doubting his talent, but he needs to do more in the big games if he wants to be seen as one of the world’s best.

He may be looking to a future without Arsenal, but he must focus on the Gunners for the next eleven matches. The team’s season may rely on Sanchez delivering 11 world class performances to guide them to a top four finish. If he manages to spearhead Arsenal’s charge to a Champions League place, it will win him a lot of individual plaudits and could even help him secure a summer move. His motivation has been questioned in recent weeks, but now is the time to focus on his football. If he performs well, Arsene Wenger’s men stand a fighting chance. If he doesn’t, things could get ugly in North London.

Featured image: All rights reserved by Stuart MacFarlane