Here he fell in love with the local region and became a superstar. Here his legend was born. And he’s back – Alexis Sanchez has returned to Udinese!
The Chilean forward has just penned a two-year deal with the Zebrette.
The story has come full circle. Udinese welcome back the greatest talent discovered by their scouting department who, from Friuli, went on to establish himself as one of the greatest players in world football over the last 15 years on the biggest international stages.
Sanchez, born in 1988, is back in Udine to offer his class, leadership and experience, which have seen him most recently help Inter to Serie A success last season.
Alexis never lost touch with Udinese and Friuli during the years he was away, maintaining a strong bond. Coach Kosta Runjaic was keen to bring in a player of his calibre, both a top footballer and one who will have all Udinese fans beaming with pride, 13 years on from his last appearance for the club.
The Chilean legend needs no introduction. Having left Udine in 2011 with a record of 21 goals in 112 appearances, Sanchez went on to win two Copa Americas, two Scudetti, two Italian Super Cups, one Coppa Italia, one La Liga, one Copa del Rey, two Spanish Super Cups, one Club World Cup, two FA Cups and three Community Shields.
However, the best is yet to come – there’s plenty of time yet to write more pages in the story of Sanchez.
We will write them together again. Welcome back, Alexis!