Alexis Sanchez’s return to Arsenal in doubt as player claims he is sick

Alexis Sanchez’s return for pre-season training at Arsenal has been cast into doubt, as the Chile international claims he is down with flu.

The 28-year-old is expected to return to the Emirates this weekend.

But on Friday morning, Sanchez uploaded a photograph of himself to his Instagram account looking forlorn, with his bottom lip protruding for effect.

He captioned it with the words “Enfermo” and “Sick”.

Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, had said on Thursday that Sanchez would report for the beginning of his pre-season work on Sunday, after he was granted extended leave following his involvement with Chile at this year’s Confederations Cup.

Sanchez, who has one year left on his Arsenal deal, has also made it clear he wants to leave to play in the Champions League.

Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain are monitoring the player’s situation.