Midfielder Injury Deals Major Setback to Erik Ten Haag’s Squad

Austria and Manchester United midfielder Marcel Sabitzer is currently facing a knee issue, as confirmed by his national team manager Ralf Rangnick.

Sabitzer notably scored two goals and provided an assist in Austria’s recent 4-1 victory over Azerbaijan in their opening Euro 2024 qualifier. However, the midfielder was forced to withdraw late in the game after picking up a knock.

With Austria set to face Estonia on Monday, Rangnick expressed doubts over Sabitzer’s availability, as he missed training alongside defender Gernot Trauner.

Rangnick revealed that the decision ultimately boils down to the player’s pain tolerance and self-assessment, but expressed optimism over his potential return.

Speaking to reporters, Rangnick said: “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. It made more sense to leave them out [of the session] again, just to give them one more day. But there are enough other candidates.”

Manchester United also confirmed that the midfielder has injury issues.

🇦🇹 Austria have confirmed an injury issue for Marcel Sabitzer.#MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 27, 2023

Erik Ten Haag will be closely monitoring the situation of things as clubs enter the crucial part of the sea son.