Alexis Sanchez
Alexis Sanchez will Chile's game against Colombia on Thursday but could return for their clash against Uruguay on Tuesday (15 November) Getty

KEY POINTS

  • Alexis Sanchez suffered a muscular injury while training with Chile.
  • The Arsenal forward is expected to return to action in five days.

Arsenal have been handed a major boost ahead of their clash against Manchester United after Chile manager Juan Antonio Pizzi confirmed that Alexis Sanchez's injury was a minor one. The forward suffered a muscular injury while training with his national team and it was initially feared that he would be out for at least three weeks.

During his press conference ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Colombia on Thursday (10 November), Pizzi confirmed that the Gunners star will only miss one game and could be back to face Uruguay.

"We expected to count on Alexis Sanchez, but he suffered a small injury yesterday and cannot be considered for tomorrow," the Chile manager said, as quoted by the Express.

"Alexis Sanchez's injury is minor. Let's hope he can be fit to play against Uruguay," he added.

The 27-year-old forward, who is known for his desire to play every minute of every game, echoed his manager's statements and confirmed that he will return for the 15 November clash against Uruguay.

"It is hurting a bit but I'm fine. I'll be back for Tuesday," Sanchez told Chilean publication El Mercurio.

However, Arsene Wenger will not be happy to know that his player is rushing back to action after a major injury scare and would be hoping that returns to England and continues his rehabilitation at Arsenal's London Colney training ground.

The Gunners have a crucial clash against United coming up after the ongoing international break and the French manager will want his top scorer to be fit for the visit to Old Trafford on 19 November.

According to the Mirror, the north London club have been in touch with their Chilean counterparts, but with the manager suggesting that he will return for the clash against Uruguay, it is unlikely they will allow him to leave early and return to the club.