Thierry Henry had to leave Arsenal to enjoy European success.
After eight years of plugging away in North London, Henry made the decision to leave for sunny Barcelona and he was duly rewarded with a Champions League winner's medal in 2009.
The French forward clearly felt as though he'd reached a ceiling with the Gunners before he eventually opted to take his talents to the Camp Nou.
Henry is still remembered fondly by all Arsenal supporters but we doubt the same will be said of Alexis Sanchez upon his retirement.
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Sanchez's decision to move to one of Arsenal's fiercest rivals has turned him into a scornworthy figure at the Emirates, with the Chile international confirmed as a Manchester United player on Monday evening.
The club's top scorer last season is now sporting the No. 7 jersey for United and he's revealed how a discussion with Arsenal legend Henry ultimately inspired his decision to move on.
"Gracias por todo Gunners!" Alexis wrote on Instagram.
"I want to say thanks to the Technical Staff, to the medical team and all teammates with whom I shared many nice things for the club and especially those people who do not see themselves on the covers, but without them nothing would be possible, which are there to prepare food for us and take care of us day by day, those who keep our shoes clean and the grass in the best conditions.
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"Many thanks to you for helping us to improve every day. Thank you very much.
"There are people (former club players) who have spoken with no knowledge of what happens inside the club and cause damage. I must say I always gave 100%, until the last day, when I asked to the Mister to be in the team, because I wanted to be a contribution.
"I remember today, a conversation I had with Henry, a historic Arsenal player, who changed club for the same reason and today is my turn.
"Thanks for everything Gunners! All we achieved and the good moments that I gave to the club, I want to dedicate it to the fans, they are the most important. Thanks for every time you sing Alexis Sanchez Baby."
