“I’m not sure he’ll help them right away”
Liverpool legend Dietmar Hamann is unsure of Manchester United’s loanee Marcel Sabitzer’s potential impact at Old Trafford.
The Austrian midfielder joined the Red Devils on loan from Bayern Munich with no option to buy on deadline day (January 31). United have signed Sabitzer after learning that Christian Eriksen is expected to be out of action until April or early May.
The Danish midfielder injured his ankle after a poor tackle from Andy Carroll in their FA Cup fourth round clash on January 28.
Sabitzer, 28, was also linked with a move to Chelsea (via The Sun) but eventually joined Manchester United. However, Hamann thinks the Austrian might struggle to hit the ground straight away.
He told Sky Sports:
“He [Sabitzer] is a very energetic player, he has a good engine, he can score a goal, I think his best position is probably a bit further forward. I don’t think he’s a defensive midfielder or a midfielder.
“I’m quite surprised Chelsea and Manchester United are interested because I’m not sure he’ll help them straight away.”
He added:
“He’s a good team player to have, but if he has an immediate impact I’m not sure. He’s definitely not a player to replace Christian Eriksen, I think he’s a box player. -to-box which has a good engine, it is very versatile, it has sometimes played back.”
Sabitzer has made 24 appearances for Bayern Munich this season, contributing one goal and one assist.
Marcel Sabitzer percentile rank among midfielders in Europe for [per 90]:Shots – 99% [2.38] Shots On Target – 98% [0.75]Tackles in the 1/3 final – 97% [0.54]SCA (defensive) – 95% [0.14]Tackles won – 93% [1.84]Short passes completed – 92% [30.02]Pressing monster. 🔥 https://t.co/DRw8aQWqOu
Marcel Sabitzer on his arrival at Manchester United
While Hamann might have his doubts, Sabitzer is confident he can contribute well to the Red Devils. He explained that he was delighted to hear about the opportunity and that he wanted to move to Old Trafford.
Speaking to United media after his unveiling as a Manchester United player, Sabitzer said:
“Sometimes in life you have to make quick and big decisions. From the moment I heard about this opportunity, I knew it was right for me. I’m a competitive player; I want to win and help the club to achieve its goals this season.
He added:
“I feel like I’m at my peak as a player and I can bring a lot of experience and energy to the team. I’m excited to start with my new teammates and manager and show my qualities to the fans of Manchester United.”
Sabitzer joined Bayern Munich from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021. He has since registered two goals and two assists in 54 appearances for the German giants.
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