Austria’s head coach and former Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick has confirmed that Marcel Sabitzer is struggling with a knee injury ahead of tonight’s home Euro 2024 qualifier against Estonia.
Sabitzer recently had a fantastic performance for Austria against Azerbaijan. In David Alaba’s absence, he took on the captain’s role and scored two goals and provided an assist.
Ahead of their next match, Rangnick said that he is doubtful about Sabitzer after missing Sunday’s training session due to a knock.
As reported by the club’s official website, Rangnick said:
“In the end, it is a question of pain and pain tolerance for both Marcel and Gernot. Of course, we hope that Marcel will do well, especially after that first game in Linz.”
“At the moment, I’m optimistic that it can work but, at the end of the day, it’s also a question of whether Marcel feels ready for it himself. At the moment, I am assuming he’ll play.”
United have already been dealing with a number of midfield issues. Due to a severe knee injury, Donny van de Beek has already been declared out for the entire season.
Christian Eriksen has just started individual training after suffering an ankle injury, and he might not make his Red Devils debut until the final week of April.
The only remaining senior central midfield alternatives are Casemiro, Fred, Scott McTominay, and Sabitzer; however, the former is suspended for the upcoming three league matches.
United currently has a limited number of options in the midfield. Sabitzer will hopefully only have a minor injury and be able to play tonight.
The star, who is valued at €20 million, has settled well after going on loan in January and may play a significant role in the remaining games of the season.
