Manchester United loanee Marcel Sabitzer has been roundly praised after his superb international performance.
Marcel Sabitzer netted two goals for Austria to lead his nation to a 4-1 Euro 2024 qualifying victory over Azerbaijan, and also provided an assist.
One of the strikes came from a free-kick and his new-found confidence has been noted within the Austria set-up.
In quotes from his manager and teammates to channel Laola1, Sabitzer’s move to Manchester United has been credited.
Sabitzer praised
Austria teammate Christoph Baumgartner told Laola1 he sees the improvement in Sabitzer’s game since the last international break.
He said: “Sabis’ performance was outstanding, you can’t say it any other way. He is simply a player with a lot of quality.
“I think the change did him good. He is literally flourishing, is very, very good.”
His words were backed by Austria boss Ralf Rangnick, Manchester United’s former interim manager.
Rangnick added: “He has a lot more confidence than when he was at Bayern.
“Nobody dropped out in this game, but of course you can say that ‘Sabi’ was the difference player after scoring two goals and preparing one.”
Sabitzer left Bayern Munich after 18 months at the club, where he was only ever really regarded as a back-up.
He faces a tall order to win a starting spot at United, especially with Christian Eriksen set to return, but the change in environment has clearly done him the world of good.
Sabitzer scored his first United goal before the break, has already won a trophy, and says he is enjoying the Premier League and style of play under Erik ten Hag, that he is even staying behind for extra practice.