Marcel Sabitzer scored a brace for Austria in their Euro 2024 qualifier against Azerbaijan, including a wonderful free-kick from range.
The 29-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder, who is currently on a six-month loan at Manchester United, has provided steady cover in the absence of Casemiro, who has missed out recently through injury and suspension.
Sabitzer has performed admirably in the middle of the park for Erik ten Hag’s side when called upon.
And he continued that good run of form on Friday night, when Austria recorded an emphatic 4-1 win over Azerbaijan at the Raiffeisen Arena.
After being named captain for the Group F qualifier by manager Ralf Rangnick, the former RB Leipzig man opened the scoring with 27 minutes played.
Then, after Michael Gregoritsch doubled Austria’s lead moments later, the Manchester United loanee made it three with a delicious second-half free-kick from distance.
Here’s how fans reacted to the goal.
One said: “Nobody told us Marcel Sabitzer was a dead ball specialist,” while another wrote: “Erik Ten Hag @ManUtd, hope you saw what Sabitzer did on that free kick? Please sign him and help him practice more on his free kicks.”
A third commented: “Marcel Sabitzer’s second goal was a free kick, he should be on free kicks at Man Utd. Man can do it all. My midfielder.”
A fourth added: “Well, we already have another set piece taker. What a free kick from Sabitzer.”
Sabitzer has recently opened up about his versatility on the pitch, as well his admiration for manager Ten Hag, who helped bring the German midfielder to Old Trafford in January.
“In modern football, there are a lot of tactical things going around,” Sabitzer told Inside United. “You switch during a game so you have to be versatile. I think I am and I think it helps me a lot.
“The manager does a lot of work. He is a hard worker, very structured and he’s helping us a lot with his game-plans, with training.
“He’s a very good coach, tactical, and, as a guy too, we are enjoying the fact that he is our manager and are looking forward to working together and bringing trophies to Man United.”
He added: “We have a lot of quality in the squad. As well, in the midfield especially. Very good players, experienced players and I think we have a good relationship on the pitch and off the pitch. It helps us a lot and I’m enjoying playing with the guys.
“I felt it [a bond] from the very first moment on, you know, the spirit in the dressing room and the connection between the players. It’s something special. So it was very easy for me to come in and have relationships with the guys.
“As I said, I enjoy being in this group and, as I said, we are ready to go.”
Do you think United should make a permanent move for Sabitzer in the summer?
Let us know in the comments.
#Fans #Marcel #Sabitzer #Man #Utds #firstchoice #freekick #taker #screamer #Austria