While the Gunners’ boss has become increasingly tetchy about questions over the saga of a new contract for the striker, his eyes light up talking about the superstar quality of the man from Chile.
Alexis Sanchez has been a revelation as the main central striker for Arsenal, scoring 12 League goals in 16 matches and providing the fizzing inspiration for the side.
That will be required once more in this afternoon’s crucial showdown away to title rivals Manchester City, and Wenger is backing his ace to lead the way.
“Alexis is a leader on the football pitch because he is not scared of anybody,” said Arsene Wenger.
“That’s a great kind of leadership. He is a strong man, and he surprises people a bit because you do not expect that from a player of his size --- that dynamic and strong-willed attitude.
“But that’s his game. I think he is comparable to Luis Suarez in his style, but not to any player I have had before.
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Arsene Wenger reckons Alexis Sanchez has become Arsenal's fearless leaders
“Thierry Henry was a real athlete, and naturally so. Sanchez just has this strength.”
The flood of flattery will do no harm as Wenger attempts to persuade the striker to stay with Arsenal when serious contract talks occur. He will need a cascade of cash as well.
Sanchez will surely be the key figure against a Manchester City side whose weakness this season has been inconsistent defending.
That is plain for all to see, but Wenger was in no mood to join the band of critics sniping at City manager Pep Guardiola.
He is a confirmed long-term admirer of the Spaniard, and defended him over the controversy last week when Guardiola was mocked for saying he isn’t “a coach for tackles” after losing against Leicester last weekend.
“You look at the numbers and City tackle as much as anybody else,” said Wenger sharply.
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Wenger reckons Sanchez plays in a similar style to Barcelona striker Luis Suarez
“I think it was a way to respond to questions that always come with a defeat. They do not tackle less than Arsenal or anyone else in the League.
“I never had the feeling against Manchester City that they weren’t tackling, and I never had that feeling against any team of Pep Guardiola.
“When I first arrived at Arsenal I had a team of tacklers. My back four was very physical. I do not believe that is the real problem of Manchester City. Their players are used to football in England.”
Today’s contest is vital for both teams as they lag behind leaders Chelsea. Victory would not just mean three points, but also lift morale.
“Of course we need the psychological boost of beating a big opponent, but Manchester City will tell you just the same,” said Wenger.
“This is a big game, and there will be a fierce intensity.
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Wenger is backing Sanchez to lead the charge in their crucial game against Manchester City
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“It is very competitive this season and I am surrounded by top class managers. Of course I want to win. We have only played 15 games and you cannot come to conclusions now.
“We had a disappointment against Everton and it is how you bounce back from those matches that will decide your season.
“The fight will be tighter this season and more difficult than ever. Of course the competition with new managers stimulates everybody. We will see. It will be very open until the end I think.”
Wenger has enjoyed pitting his wits against Jurgen Klopp, Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho. But playing against Guardiola probably excites him most.
“Guardiola’s team at Barcelona is the best team I have ever faced as a manager,” said the veteran Arsenal boss.
“We faced Barcelona at its peak, when Xavi was young enough and Andres Iniesta was coming through. That was the best team. They were young and hungry like Lionel Messi --- they had a huge desire.”
