Sabitzer decides to take a break from Austria national team

Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer of Borussia Dortmund has decided not to participate with his national team during the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches, following an agreement with coach Ralf Rangnick.

Marcel Sabitzer, 32, explained that the past two years have been extremely exhausting, noting that he has played nearly three consecutive seasons since the UEFA Euro 2024, through the FIFA Club World Cup and the FIFA World Cup 2026, in addition to Borussia Dortmund's busy schedule this season with the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and UEFA Champions League.

The Borussia Dortmund player said he wants to continue playing at the highest level for several years, so he must handle his physical effort with caution. He confirmed that the decision does not represent a final retirement from the national team, as he agreed with Rangnick to discuss the possibility of his return before the start of the UEFA Euro 2028 qualifiers next year.

Sabitzer currently has 102 international matches and 27 goals with the Austria national team, while Rangnick expressed his full understanding of the player's decision, confirming that the door to the national team will remain open for him to return at the right time.