Jose Mourinho reveals Alexis Sanchez 'needed' game time during Manchester United's 4-0 win over Yeovil

Sanchez played 71 minutes before being replaced by goalscorer Jesse Lingard

Sanchez provided two assists against Yeovil (Getty)

Jose Mourinho says that Alexis Sanchez “needed” the game time of the FA Cup fourth-round 4-0 win over League Two Yeovil Town, and said it was worth the risk of a few industrial challenges, as he argued even a “tough guy” like the Chilean needs protection from referees in such encounters.

Manchester United’s new signing put in a fine debut and had a hand in his side’s opening two goals, despite the manager revealing that he hadn’t been able to train properly due to the uncertainty over the move. Sanchez was eventually taken off after 71 minutes, with Mourinho ultimately praising him as an “amazing addition”.

“He needed to play,” Mourinho said of the Chilean. “He didn't play for Arsenal in the last two or three matches. His training was not good when you have half of your body in the Emirates and half in Manchester, so he needed to train well. He needed to play.

“I wasn't sure about 90 minutes. I wanted 60 or 75 minutes, and it was good. People start to understand his game better, and he can start to understand better the way his fellow players do.”

Sanchez also understood the nature of a lower-league tie, as he was left on the ground a few times, but never reacted.

“I was impressed with his attitude,” Mourinho said of Sanchez. “I did my job well and told the players they should be ready for that and never react [being kicked] because sometimes the top players lose their head and balance in these matches, and then can be punished.

“I understand the decision not to show the red card because this is a special day, and 10 against 11 in that moment of the game is game over. So I understand the decision. We lost the FA Cup and to come to these stadiums, but the players need protection. Alexis is a tough guy and he knew what to expect. I'm happy with everything he did.


 Mourinho praised Sanchez's coolness during the game 
 (Getty)

“I'm very happy [with Sanchez's performance]. No surprise for anyone. Three years in the PL playing every week, everyone knows what Alexis is. You don't think about adaptation or something like that in relation to English football, so no surprise for us. Fantastic player. He showed that for us and did for the past three days training with us. Amazing addition for us.”