Chilean soccer star Alexis Sanchez has revealed that he would be open to joining Liga MX giants Club America later in his career. The 34-year-old striker currently plays for Italian club Inter Milan, but his contract expires in June 2024.
Rumors linking Sanchez with a move to Club America started circulating earlier this year. America is the most successful club in Mexican soccer history, having won 14 league titles. Located in Mexico City, they are renowned for their passionate fanbase.
In a recent interview with former Chile striker Ivan Zamorano, Sanchez addressed the rumors directly. Zamorano is a Club America legend, having scored over 100 goals for the club in the 1990s.
When asked if he would be interested in playing for Club America someday, Sanchez responded enthusiastically: “Yes, I would like to. I was talking to a friend the other day, and I told him that it drew my attention because there are teams in Mexico that are passionate. They go for their club and all those things.”
Sanchez Praises Club America
The striker went on to single out Club America as the Mexican team that appeals to him the most:
“I don’t know when, but I like Mexico, Pachuca, America, which is in the capital. I like America for the fans, for how they are, for the capital, and for what Diego Valdes has told me.”
Valdes is a Chilean midfielder who currently plays for Club America. Sanchez revealed that Valdes had told him great things about the club and its fans.
Sanchez also cited America’s status as Mexico City’s biggest team as a factor in his interest. Playing in the nation’s capital and cultural heart likely appeals to Sanchez’s star status.
Looks Unlikely for 2023
Despite his interest, a move to Club America in 2023 seems unlikely. Sanchez is under contract with Inter Milan until June 2024 and appears intent on seeing out his deal.
Inter is currently battling for the Serie A title and remains alive in the Champions League. Sanchez understandably wants to stay at Inter to win more trophies before considering a change.
However, the door seems open for America to swoop in when Sanchez becomes a free agent in 2024. At 35 years old, he will likely be open to finishing his playing career with a final challenge in Mexico.
What Would Sanchez Bring to Club America?
Signing a high-profile striker like Sanchez would be a major coup for Club America. He is Chile’s all-time leading scorer and has starred for global giants like Barcelona, Arsenal, and Manchester United.
Although no longer in his prime, Sanchez would bring world-class technique, dribbling skills, and scoring instincts. His work rate also remains exceptional.
Off the field, Sanchez would give Club America a true international superstar to headline their attack. His marketability and ability to sell shirts are unmatched by any previous Liga MX signing.
Challenges Facing Potential Transfer
However, signing Sanchez would not come without challenges. At 35, he would command one of the highest salaries ever seen in Liga MX. Club America has the financial resources to meet its demands, but it would limit flexibility to strengthen other areas of the squad.
Adapting to a new league late in his career could also prove difficult for Sanchez. The pace and physicality of Liga MX may not perfectly suit his technical style of play at this stage.
America will need to determine if capturing Sanchez’s star power is worth both the financial cost and on-field risk.
Dreams Aside, What Happens to Alexis Sanchez and Club America?
Both Sanchez and Club America remain focused on their current campaigns. But if Sanchez does leave Inter as a free agent in 2024, expect the Mexico City club to ramp up their pursuit.
America will likely try to sell Sanchez on finishing his illustrious career with a final challenge. Sanchez will have to decide if the Liga MX excites him more than offers from MLS, China, or elsewhere.
This story has only begun, but an Alexis Sanchez-Club America partnership already looks like a tantalizing possibility for 2024. Sanchez in America jersey would be a marketing dream but a complex footballing proposition.