Board members agree on why move makes sense as Sabitzer signs for Bayern
Marcel Sabitzer has completed his transfer from RB Leipzig to reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.
Sabitzer was previously captain at Leipzig, but only had one year left on his contract. He was eager to explore other opportunities and had attracted Premier League interest. Tottenham Hotspur were long-term admirers, for example. But instead, the Austria international has opted to continue his career in Germany.
Sabitzer has signed a contract until 2025 with Bayern, whom he will hope to help retain their dominance of the Bundesliga.
Taking the number 18 shirt, he will slot into their midfield after the squad returns from the international break.
Explaining his decision to make the move, the 27-year-old said on Bayern’s website: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to play for FC Bayern.
“As a child my Bayern jersey was my pride and joy – I got a new one at Christmas every year. I’ll give everything for this club. I want to win as many matches as possible and of course collect lots of titles.”
Marcel Sabitzer is a Bayern player #ServusMarcel #MiaSanMia pic.twitter.com/54R6B00kJp
— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) August 30, 2021
In making the move, Sabitzer follows ex-Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann, who has made an unbeaten start to his reign at the Allianz Arena after five games in all competitions.
Their prior connection means it made sense for Bayern to acquire Sabitzer, says CEO Oliver Kahn.
“Marcel Sabitzer offers everything that an FC Bayern player needs. On top of that, he won’t need long to settle in as he’s already well-acquainted with the philosophy of our coach Julian Nagelsmann.”
Sabitzer praised for leadership
Hasan Salihamidzic, another former player turned board member, added: “We’re very happy to have brought Marcel Sabitzer to FC Bayern.
“Marcel is a very good footballer. He has a great mentality, he’s very ambitious and he carried responsibility on and off the pitch as captain of RB. Our coach knows him very well and what a leader he is. We’re looking forward to having him.”
Sabitzer is the second player to follow Nagelsmann from Leipzig to Bayern after Dayot Upamecano made a similar move in July. They have also added Omar Richards from Reading and secured the return of backup goalkeeper Sven Ulreich from Hamburg.
Bayern are aiming for a 10th consecutive Bundesliga title this season to add to their record tally.
Leipzig, meanwhile, look likely to replace Sabitzer with another Tottenham target, Ilaix Moriba.
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