Alexis Sanchez failed to name a single Arsenal player in the side.
The Chilean, who arrived at the Emirates two years ago, could select players from past or present, allowing him to pick the greats of the game.
But by having so many greats to choose from, it meant there was no room for Arsenal legends like Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry. Even Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t feature.
Only three of the eleven are still playing today, with five of his side players that made a name for themselves at Sanchez’s former club Barcelona.
The Ultimate XI of the 27-year-old, posted on Arsenal’s official YouTube channel, offers an insight into the type of footballer he has been inspired by.
Oliver Kahn gets the nod in goal, with Sanchez choosing him: “because of his desire and hunger to win — to save every ball.”
He has four defenders in his backline, starting with Carlos Puyol: “a captain who inspires — who creates energy and enthusiasm in others” and AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini.
At left-back is Roberto Carlos, who Sanchez believes was: “one of the best players in the world in that position.” And Cafu would be right-back as: “he would make fantastic attacking runs down the flank.”
Xavi would sit just in front of the defence, and the winger, speaking about the midfield maestro, said: “I’ve never seen a player in midfield who is so good on the ball. He’s like the heart of the team.”
The third Brazilian in the team, Ronaldinho plays alongside Maradona, with Sanchez citing the magic, joy and capabilities that both could produce as the key factor in his decision.
Up top, Ronaldo gets the nod through the middle — “the phenomenon” and “the best player of all time.”
Four time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi takes the right wing spot because “this is the best position for him” and to making up the Brazilian contingent and the full eleven is Pele.
Sanchez leaves the video, expressing: “I think they would do pretty well.” He’s not wrong, that’s for sure.
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