'Beating Spurs was a great joy' - Marseille star Sanchez reflects on 'special' Arsenal spell ahead of UCL showdown with Tottenham

• Marseille host Spurs
• Both could still qualify
• Sanchez left Arsenal in 2018

WHAT HAPPENED? Sanchez has been discussing his time at Arsenal ahead of facing their north London rivals in a winner-takes-all Champions League clash on Tuesday night at Stade Velodrome, with a place in the last 16 on the line. The Chilean was a talismanic presence for the Gunners and often shone in the north London derby, but alienated Gunners fans when he left for Man Utd in 2018.

WHAT THEY SAID: Speaking in a press conference ahead of taking on Spurs once again, Sanchez said: "I have great affection for Arsenal from my time there, beating Spurs every time was a great joy. Very special. They are days I will always cherish."

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Sanchez's move to Man Utd was ultimately unsuccessful and he would join Inter on an initial loan after just a season and a half. He now plies his trade for Marseille having made the switch to France in the summer.

IN THREE PHOTOS:

WHAT NEXT FOR SANCHEZ? Sanchez will be hoping to rebuild some bridges with Arsenal fans by knocking Spurs out of the Champions League at Stade Velodrome with a victory on Tuesday night.