World Cup 2026: Can Sabitzer once again be a game-changer for Austria?

Marcel Sabitzer's international career began in June 2012. At the age of 18, the midfielder made his debut for the Austrian national team in a friendly against Romania. Back then, he was a promising talent, getting his first taste of international football before maturing into one of the national team's key players in the following years.

Over the years, Sabitzer has become one of the most influential players, contributing an impressive 48 direct goal involvements in his 98 international appearances to date. An impressive figure that is quickly forgotten. Even under Ralf Rangnick, Sabitzer, who sometimes even captains the team, plays a vital role and is indispensable with his shooting technique, goal threat, and overall playmaking abilities. The recent friendly matches have once again demonstrated this.

The Dortmund and the Austrian Sabitzer

His strong performances for the Austrian national team, however, repeatedly caused surprise, particularly among many Dortmund fans. While Sabitzer has also had numerous impressive appearances for Borussia Dortmund, for example, in the sensational comeback against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League a few years ago, where a bookmaker with an early-payout function would have been helpful to save some nerves, the now 32-year-old hasn't been able to consistently convince in Dortmund's midfield.

This was no different from last season. Certainly, Sabitzer is generally viewed critically by many fans, but he has also consistently lacked the necessary consistency. This is surprising, because at RB Leipzig, in particular, the versatile midfielder always led by example and was one of the most consistent players there.

Sabitzer seems to be able to flip the famous switch as soon as he joins the national team, impressing not only with spectacular goals. However, when Sabitzer returns to Dortmund, Borussia rarely sees the Austrian Sabitzer. A bitter pill to swallow for Borussia Dortmund, but a boon for the Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) as they look ahead to the 2026 World Cup.

This is the World Cup group awaiting Sabitzer & Co.

The focus now shifts to Sabitzer's comfort zone: the national team. Austria won all three of their last friendlies before their first World Cup group match, with Sabitzer himself playing a crucial role. He contributed three goals and two assists in his role as a left-sided attacking midfielder, so the 2026 World Cup can't come soon enough. The team seems well-positioned to compensate for the injury-related absence of Christoph Baumgartner.

The tournament kicks off for the Austrian national team on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. Their first group match is against Jordan, the easiest opponent in the group. Consequently, Rangnick, Sabitzer, and the rest of the team are under immense pressure, as a slip-up could have far-reaching consequences and potentially even lead to an early exit.

Finally, on the second matchday of the group stage, the reigning world champions Argentina await, before Algeria is met on the last matchday. The Austrian national team can certainly secure points against both teams by pushing itself to its absolute limits, but an opening victory would relieve some pressure on Rangnick's team. So, everyone is eagerly anticipating Austria's World Cup opener and the performance of Marcel Sabitzer. However, it can be assumed that Sabitzer will once again lead the way as an absolute leader in the national team jersey and duly guide the ÖFB team.