Alexis Sanchez Reveals He Studied Online Videos to Become Arsenal Striker

Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez has revealed he’s been conducting some online research that’s helped him in his change of position this season. 

The Chile international has been used as the most advanced player in the XI by manager Arsene Wenger in 2016-17 and so far, the Gunners No. 7 has blossomed in the position. However, Sanchez revealed he’s trawled over footage that’s helped refine areas of his game, per the club’s official website.

“[Wenger] asked me to play there so I said fine—I looked up some videos on the internet to see how I needed to adjust my movement, and I've been adapting since then,” Sanchez detailed.

Athena Pictures/Getty Images

While this has been hailed as a new tactic from Wenger, it is something the Arsenal boss has tinkered with in the past.

Sanchez has been used as a sole striker for Arsenal previously, although prior to this campaign he’s never quite showed his best in the role. Indeed, defenders found him much more difficult to pin down when drifting infield from the left flank, linking with a striker and firing off shots at goal.

However, there’s been a major improvement in the way Sanchez has led the line for the Gunners. As these numbers from OptaJoe illustrate, the Chilean is still making significant contributions in the final third:

While he may not be the most imposing physical specimen, Sanchez has become a lot cuter in his work with his back to goal and how to best use his body.

It’s a responsibility that the former Barcelona man is enjoying. “I like it as a centre-forward because I can get involved in the play more,” he said. “I have the chance to drop deep a little bit more and that means I can link up with my team-mates more.”

IAN KINGTON/Getty Images

His unselfish runs and industry have certainly brought the best out of his colleagues. Not only is Mesut Ozil enjoying a goal glut, but Alex Iwobi is blossoming on the left flank and Theo Walcott finally looks a player fulfilled on the right. Matthew Stanger of thesetpieces thinks Wenger is being rewarded for trusting in his players:

The switch has kindled a new lease of life in Sanchez, who struggled for consistency in 2015-16 after a blistering debut term. While he still isn’t an orthodox centre-forward, having a player so vibrant at the sharp end of the team gives Arsenal an edge they’ve lacked in the past.

According to John Cross of the Daily Mirror, the Gunners do have some concerns about Sanchez signing a new contract, with his current deal set to expire in around 18 months. All those tied to the club will be hoping this new role will trigger goals, silverware and a long-term stay at the Emirates for their Chilean sharpshooter.