The signing of Alexis Sanchez was definitely one to remember, as it seemed like the speculation came out of nowhere, but when the signing was finally completed, it lead to great jubilation from everyone associated with Arsenal Football Club. The impact Alexis had was exactly what Arsenal fans were expecting from Mesut Ozil the season before, but now all fans will be glad that Arsenal have now made two marquee signings in two summers.
Impact on the fans and in the dressing room
The addition of Alexis Sanchez will be one to remember as Arsenal fans haven't had a player to worship and adore since Thierry Henry was still playing for the club. What makes Alexis Sanchez such a good signing to Arsenal fans is his tremendous impact on Arsenal's game in only his first season; his passion and his work ethic.
When Alexis Sanchez plays in the Arsenal shirt, it's easy to see how hard he is trying and how hard he is willing to work, for the good of the team, which makes him a hero at the club. One heartwarming thing about the Chilean is his great confidence on the pitch, yet remaining very humble off the pitch. Throughout the season, Alexis scored 16 goals in 34 games in the Premier League, whilst scoring some screamers in all competitions.
Considering how quick top Arsenal players such as Aaron Ramsey, Mesut Ozil and Theo Walcott were to welcome Alexis on twitter, you could tell how pleased they were with Arsenal making yet another marquee signing however, Walcott went a step further. Shortly after the release of Arsenal's PUMA kit, Walcott said the following about Alexis: "It is great to learn from these players, and I cannot wait to play alongside him. I am really looking forward to it."
The signing of Alexis definitely boosted the morale of the Arsenal players but sadly, this was not too evident at the beginning of the season as Arsenal struggled. However, after Christmas it was obvious that the overall work rate and ethic of the team had increased, almost as if the players were trying to match Alexis, which is exactly the sort of impact Wenger would want a world class player to have on his side.
The players appreciated how hard Alexis worked for the good of the team and hopefully will try and emulate him further next season. Arséne Wenger and Alexis have great mutual respect for each other, with the manager adoring the Chilean's work talent and positive hardworking attitude, whilst the player adores how his manager shows faith in players and adores his managers knowledge. The players and Wenger would have been hoping that Alexis would be that one player to help them win the Premier League, regardless of a third place finish he was Arsenal's player of the season.
The COPA America winner is now having his well deserved rest. Recently Wenger described him as "fearless" and stated how excited and determined Alexis is about winning trophies with the club. Arsenal will be hoping that their star man doesn't suffer from the common second season syndrome and starts it again where he left it off.