Alexis Sanchez doubtful for Chile’s World Cup qualifier against Brazil

Alexis Sanchez is unlikely to play for Chile against Brazil.

The Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez and the Bayern Munich midfielder Arturo Vidal are doubtful for Chile’s World Cup qualifier against Brazil on Thursday after struggling to shake off injuries, coach Jorge Sampaoli said.

The Copa América champions play Brazil in Santiago before travelling to Lima to face Peru on Tuesday.

"Neither Vidal nor Alexis are confirmed for the Brazil game," Sampaoli said. Neither player has been in full training since travelling to join the Chile squad this week.

Sanchez left the field early during the second half of Sunday’s match with Manchester United, after suffering what his manager, Arsène Wenger, described as "a little groin problem".

Vidal missed Bayern Munich’s last Champions League clash due to a knee injury and played only a few minutes of last weekend’s Bundesliga game.

"Right now I see Arturo Vidal far from fit for the game, at least the first tie," said Sampaoli.