"When you are at academies like Manchester United and Arsenal then everything is just given to you.
"If I had failed I would be working 15-hour days on construction sites and still not be earning enough to live. Football saved me, and I don't think any England players could say that."
The former Udinese man also cast doubt on England's hopes of victory in next year's World Cup in Brazil.
A European side has never triumphed when the event has been held in South America, but while Sanchez is hopeful of his own nation's hopes, he thinks Spain and Germany will be leading contenders.
"I don't think England can win the World Cup," he said. "They have some very good players but are probably not at the level where they can beat the best.
"It will be very hard for any team outside of South America to win in Brazil, but if two teams have a chance then it is Spain and Germany. Their teams are exceptional.
"We have to believe that Chile has a chance. It is not a home tournament but we must take advantage of it being in South America. We will not have to adjust to the conditions as much as other nations."
