Arsene Wenger has told reporters in his Manchester City pre-match press-conference that he believes both Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil would like to stay at Arsenal.
Sanchez was recently quoted saying that he would prefer to stay in London but play for a team with ‘winning mentality’ which is understood to mean that he wants to move to Chelsea. Wenger, however, believes there is only one team in London – Arsenal.
“In a positive way, there’s only one team in London, so he’s happy.” Wenger said. “I have not to add a lot. I think he’s happy here. We have not extended his contract, I hope he will stay at the club.
“You have to be cautious when they give interviews in their home country. The interpretation is not always correct.”
On the Sanchez’ Chelsea link he said: “It happened before when we had to sell our best players. But that’s not the case anymore. He has one and half years contract. I don’t think it is an immediate concern for Arsenal.”
While Sanchez has been Arsenal’s best player this season, the Gunners’ other star player Mesut Ozil has failed to replicate his best in February and March. Ozil has recently hit back at critics by saying he believes he’s been unfairly treated and made a scapegoat for Arsenal’s poor form.
Wenger said: “It’s a price to pay [being criticised] when you are big player – sometimes you are unfairly treated – sometimes you’re unfairly treated in both ways, you can get too much praise when things are going well and you can get too much stick.”
It is not understood whether there is any progress with the club’s attempts to extend Ozil’s contract, who along with Wenger and Sanchez will continue to be the biggest talking points over the next few months. Wenger also refused to throw some light on his future plans but assured reporters that his commitment to Arsenal is as strong as ever.
“Not today. But I am very clear in mind. Do I stay two more years? My commitment will be the same. It does not influence my attitude. I’ve always been clear in my mind. It’s a subject that is not sorted completely.”
Arsenal have two games in hand as they host rivals Manchester City on Sunday in a bid to secure top four place this season. The Gunners will be without Peter Cech, Santi Cazorla and Lucas Perez.
