Christian Eriksen has been one of the most consistent players this season with Marcel Sabitzer brought in after he suffered an injury recently. On Wednesday night, Casemiro once again demonstrated his creative abilities by setting up Wout Weghorst for the finest opportunity of the first half and providing the crucial pass for the game’s first goal in the second. However, even the Brazilian requires assistance. Surprising deadline-day signings are commonly referred to as panic purchases, but Marcel Sabitzer’s transfer from Bayern Munich was sensible and necessary. He possesses the qualities needed in a vital position, which means he can assist in finding a solution. Erik ten Hag switched Eriksen to a midfield position after the error of starting him as a forward against Brighton at home.
“He plays in a “six” and an “eight” role where he has a lot of mobility, so we moved him a little bit deeper on the field,” Erik ten Hag said after Marcel Sabitzer was brought in as cover for Christian Eriksen. “We direct him to the areas he must occupy, but he must also adjust to them. I believe he can design a game for you.”
Once upon a time, Sabitzer would not have fit that role. Prior to achieving popularity in Leipzig by going inside from the right flank, he experienced success farther forward at Red Bull Salzburg, scoring 27 goals in all competitions in his final season in his native Austria. He even played in goal for his nation at Euro 2016. Sabitzer and Thomas Janeschitz first collaborated at the U17 level, and Janeschitz served as Austria’s assistant coach at that competition. He has continued along this path to become a replacement for Eriksen.
Ten Hag prefers to play Fred with Casemiro, but Sabitzer’s intellect and technique might easily enable him to cover for Bruno Fernandes and the strikers if the scenario calls for it. He fills the void left by Donny van de Beek’s and Eriksen’s significant injuries. Sabitzer is a loan signing, therefore it’s up to him to immediately contribute at Old Trafford. He has the character to assume such duty at the age of 28.
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