Chile icon Alexis Sanchez has struggled at Manchester United (Image: GETTY)
That is the view of Chile manager Reinaldo Rueda who has stuck by the out-of-form winger at this summer’s Copa America.
Sanchez has started both of their group games in the South American tournament so far and has repaid the faith in his manager by scoring in both of their eventual victories.
Colombian Rueda took charge of the Chile national team last year and has enjoyed an impressive start in his first major tournament as boss.
After their 2-1 victory over Ecuador on Friday, the 62-year-old was asked why Sanchez has failed to replicate the good form that earned him a move to Manchester United.
"He has the motivation, affection and some relationships that he has in the national team and maybe he didn't have them in Manchester," Rueda said.
"He arrived at a difficult, inopportune moment, perhaps in the most unbalanced United in recent years."
Chile’s record goal-scorer Sanchez joined United from Arsenal in a swap deal involving Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
The winger made his desire to leave Arsenal clear as he approached the end of his contract and came close to joining Manchester City in the same transfer window.
Chile manager Reinaldo Rueda has blamed 'unbalanced' Man Utd for Sanchez' form (Image: GETTY)
Man Utd flop Alexis Sanchez has scored twice in two Copa America 2019 apperances (Image: GETTY)
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Despite averaging 24 goals in his three full seasons at the Emirates, the 30-year-old has only managed five goals in 45 United appearances so far.
United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer grew frustrated with Sanchez’ poor performances towards the end of the season and handed the forward a stark warning.
“As a club we cannot carry players,” the Norwegian said.
“Everyone has to take ownership, keep improving, show that hunger that you want to get better individually and as a team.
Alexis Sanchez scored 30 goals in his last full season at Arsenal (Image: GETTY)