In an interview with Sport Bild, Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer has said that Manchester United’s midfield has more competition than Bayern Munich’s.
The 29-year-old joined the Red Devils in a surprise loan move from Bayern last winter following an unfortunate ankle injury for Christian Eriksen in the FA Cup.
Sabitzer has since made 12 appearances for the club in all competitions and he remains hopeful that his deal will be turned into a permanent one this summer.
Speaking with Sport Bild, the midfielder clarified that United only wanted to sign him on loan but the situation will be evaluated at the end of the campaign.
He said: “United made it clear that it was a project until the summer, then we’ll see. Until then, I want to give everything here. It’s a loan deal without an option. In the summer, the situation will be evaluated.”
The former RB Leipzig man added that the competition in United’s midfield is ‘more extreme’ than Bayern’s and also spoke highly about new Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel.
He added: “There’s competition at every top club. At United, it’s even more extreme than in Munich. Here there’s McTominay, Eriksen, Casemiro, Fred and me. If I was afraid of competition, I wouldn’t have joined neither Bayern nor United.”
“I haven’t had contact with him yet [Tuchel], but I have a high opinion of him as a coach. He’s extremely meticulous and thinks all day about his game plan and training content. In addition he plays attractive football. He’s a top coach.”
United could consider permanent Sabitzer deal
Sabitzer has fared well in his short-term loan at United. He has quickly adapted to the playing style and has contributed one goal and one assist from 12 appearances.
The Austrian definitely has the ability to make more goal contributions and he will be hoping to impress manager Erik ten Hag between now and the end of the season.
With United entering the race for Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham, Sabitzer will need to step up his performances to secure a permanent transfer this summer.
Bayern could be prepared to sell him for €20 million but the decision ultimately depends on Tuchel. Sabitzer was clearly out-of-favour under former boss Julian Nagelsmann.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
