Eric Bailly on Alexis Sanchez: Bailly spoke about the Chilean forward in a series of quotes by the defender on Man Utd’s website, titled ‘Bailly’s teammates.’
Alexis Sanchez’s time at Manchester United, at least on the football pitch, has been troubling ever since he joined the club in January. The Chilean forward has scored only four clubs since signing for the club, and only one this season.
Sanchez was benched for Anthony Martial after a series of inconsistent performances this season. Even when the forward was relatively better as a striker in the absence of Lukaku, Mourinho has preferred Marcus Rashford to lead the attacking line.
The media reports suggest that Sanchez has become a lone figure in the dressing room, and that he wants to leave the club. Last week, Telegraph even suggested that the forward likes to keep himself isolated and is on talking terms with only three players at the club.
However, the recent feature by Manchester United presents a different reality to Sanchez’s situation at the club. Eric Bailly, the defender, who also fell out-of-favour with Mourinho after poor performances in the beginning of the season, has talked about the Chilean forward.
Bailly on Alexis Sanchez:
Eric Bailly, in a complete contrast to what the English media has been reporting, stated that Alexis Sanchez is ‘always talking’ to team members.
“He has a huge amount of talent,” Bailly said. “He brings a lot, he’s a plus. He’s always talking to his team-mates and the other forwards,” he added.
Eric Bailly on Alexis Sanchez: “He has a huge amount of talent. He brings a lot, he’s a plus. He’s always talking to his team-mates & the other forwards. I’m very proud to have a player like him & I hope he will continue to be in good form. That will be good for our team.” #MUFC pic.twitter.com/nFmFtWSyD9
— Manchester United (@MUFCScoop) November 19, 2018
Bailly also insisted that the presence of Sanchez is good for the side.
“I’m very proud to have a player like him and I hope he will continue to be in good form. That will be good for our team.”
Alexis Sanchez scored in international friendly against Costa Rica. Hope he continues his form like that in Manchester shirt. #AS7 #AlexisTheLittleMagician. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/7omUbK5zY9
— ➆ (@MysticalAlexis) November 17, 2018
Interestingly, reports from England suggest that Eric Bailly’s position at Manchester United could also be in trouble, as Mourinho intends to sell him to clear space for a defensive signing in January.
Mourinho needed a new defence but wasn’t allowed to spend big on experienced players, so got teenager Dalot for £19m, as well as Bailly (£30m) and Lindelof (£31m) who were both 22. A total of £80m. Now the club are extending Valencia and Young’s deals, two washed up wingers.
— Scott Patterson (@R_o_M) November 19, 2018
Bailly joined the club in 2016, and established his place in the side after consistent displays in his first season. However, injuries marred his second season at the club, and his performances eventually deteriorated, forcing Mourinho to bench him.