Update: Alexis Sanchez leaves Man United fans in little doubt as he drops Arsenal comment News

Alexis Sanchez has shown where his true allegiances lie after Manchester United progressed to the semi-finals of the Europa League following a 7-6 aggregate win over Lyon

Alexis Sanchez reaffirmed his loyalty to Arsenal over Manchester United in a social media post as both Premier League teams progressed in Europe.

Arsenal quashed any chance of a Real Madrid resurgence in their Champions League quarter-final second leg, securing a 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu and a 5-1 aggregate win over the reigning holders.

Meanwhile, United demonstrated why Old Trafford is known as the Theatre of Dreams on Thursday night in the Europa League. The Red Devils staged an epic comeback against a 10-man Lyon side to secure a 7-6 aggregate win and progress to the semi-finals of the competition.

With a two-goal lead at half-time, United appeared to be sailing towards the final four – but Paulo Fonseca’s team had different ideas. Quickfire goals from Corentin Tolisso, who was later sent off, and Nicolas Tagliafico equalised the match and forced extra time.

In an incredible turn of events during the clash, Rayan Cherki and Alexandre Lacazette’s goals saw the scoreline swing 4-2 in the favour of the 10 men, leaving United seemingly on the brink of another European exit.

But in a display of sheer determination, Casemiro’s efforts earned a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes confidently slotted away. The Brazilian’s brilliance played a pivotal role in setting up late goals for Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire, leading to an exhilarating 5-4 victory that propelled the Red Devils into the semi-finals.

But former Arsenal and United star Sanchez only acknowledged one of the results as he took to social media, expressing his enduring affection for the Gunners following their impressive Champions League triumph. In his heartfelt Instagram post, which included a photo of himself donning Arsenal’s kit, the club badge, and a video from the Emirates Stadium, Sanchez wrote: “In Football, there are loves that you never forget. ARSENAL. La Forma de AlmaSoul.”

His statement sums up his deep emotional bond with his first English club and the lasting impression they have left on him – and solidifies his allegiance to north London over Manchester.

After arriving from Barcelona, the Chilean international spent four years at Arsenal, making 166 appearances, scoring 80 goals, and contributing 44 assists. He also lifted two FA Cups and clinched three Community Shields with them, looking back on his days in the capital with admiration.

However, his time at Old Trafford isn’t recalled upon with the same fondness and love. Sanchez revealed his regret over his move to United in 2020, admitting he wanted to terminate his contract after the very first training session with the club.

The 36-year-old joined United from Arsenal but had a difficult time, scoring only five goals in 45 appearances. Sanchez’s struggles were said to be compounded by injuries and issues under then-manager Jose Mourinho.

Speaking on Instagram four years ago, he said: “Before, I had an agreement with Man City, but due to football issues, I accepted the opportunity to go to United. It felt tempting and it was something good for me.

“I liked this club a lot when I was a kid. Eventually, I signed but I didn’t ask for information on what was happening inside the club. Sometimes there are things that you don’t realise until you get there and I remember the first training session I had, I realised a lot of things.”

He added: “After the session I got home and I told my family and my agent: ‘Can you not rip up the contract to go back to Arsenal?’ They laughed, I told them there’s something that doesn’t sit right, it doesn’t seem good. But I already signed, I was already there. After the first few months I carried on having the same feeling, we weren’t united as a team in that moment.”

After a disappointing stint with United, Sanchez moved to Inter Milan, where he found success once again. During his time at Inter, he clinched two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia, and two Supercoppa Italiana trophies.

Following his successful spell at Inter, Sanchez had stints with Marseille and returned to Inter for a second time before moving to Udinese. He is currently sidelined due to a calf injury after making just nine appearances this season.