Marcel Sabitzer has hailed Wembley Stadium as ‘the home of football’ and is relishing the prospect of returning to a ground which already holds a special place in his heart this weekend.
Sabitzer had played at Wembley Stadium in the last 16 of UEFA EURO 2020, when Austria lost 2-1 to Italy after extra-time, prior to his loan arrival at Manchester United from Bayern Munich in February.
Then less than four weeks later, the midfielder was a second-half substitute as United won the League Cup with a 2-0 win over Newcastle United.
Brighton & Hove Albion v Manchester United
Emirates FA Cup semi-final
Sunday 23 April 2023, 4.30pm
Wembley Stadium connected by EE
Now Sabitzer will be back at Wembley Stadium on Sunday when United face Brighton & Hove Albion in the Emirates FA Cup semi-final.
You can read part of his interview for the matchday programme below and can read the full thing by purchasing a copy here.
What is so special about playing at Wembley?
“I think it’s the home of football. It’s a special stadium. When it’s full there are about 90,000 people. It has a good atmosphere so it’s a very special place for a footballer. I enjoy it every time.”
Do you think you’ve learned anything from that victory over Newcastle in the final that will help you in the Emirates FA Cup semi-final?
“You know, in knockout games or finals, it’s very important to be on point and to get the first goal and to have a good mentality on the pitch. And yes, we will try to do the same. Bring our strengths on the pitch, and I’m confident we can go through.”
As you know, the League Cup was the club’s first trophy in six years, do you think that adding an FA Cup would constitute a successful season?
“Yes, I think so. Manchester United have won it many times. So, I know how important that is for the club and the supporters. We’re in a good position now to bring it back to Manchester and to give everything to bring it home.”
You scored your first goal at Old Trafford against Fulham earlier in the competition. How did it feel?
“Very emotional. It was a special feeling. Scoring in front of the Stretford End is very special and it was my first goal for this massive club so I was very emotional after.”
What have you found to be the biggest difference from your time in Germany and now playing in England?
“It’s different. The style and the way of the league. You know, it’s more physical, more intense and more open. In Germany, you have more tactical games. Here, it’s what I like the most, that’s the way I want to play.”
What is it like playing under Erik ten Hag?
“He is a very detailed coach so he gives everything for the game plan, for the training sessions. He is especially a good guy and he gives us a good game plan and gives us confidence.
“And he’s clear in his mind, you know. There is a good mix of having a bit of fun, but when you’re on the pitch, you have to be 100 per cent focused. And you feel that in every moment. We’re very happy that he’s our manager.”
There is a lot of competition in that midfield. Is the pressure that comes with this something you relish?
“Yes, when you’re with a big club, like Manchester United, where there is always competition, you have the best players from around the world. So that’s nothing I’m hiding from. I’m ready for the competition. I try to give my best when I’m on the pitch. Yes, I want to have game time and I will do everything for it.”
You got used to winning during your time at Bayern Munich. Do you think that your experience and knowledge will be important today?
“Experience is very important in football. When you have a lot of players with a lot of experience that helps the team. You need a good mix of experienced and youth players. And here we have that in our squad.
“I’m used to winning. I want to win every game, and when I’m losing, I’m very upset so I try to give all I have in every game to win.”
