Thomas Muller has admitted that the Bayern Munich players were "surprised" by Marcel Sabitzer's deadline day loan move to Manchester United.
United, who will be going in search of a 13th successive home win when they welcome Crystal Palace to Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon, swooped for Sabitzer on Tuesday after it emerged that Christian Eriksen faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury. The Dane could be out until early May because of an ankle problem.
United are understood to have completed the deal to sign Sabitzer in the space of just 12 hours, meaning they had to act fast to get it over the line ahead of the window slamming shut. United announced Sabitzer's arrival at 12:10am on Wednesday morning, having filed a deal sheet before the 11pm deadline.
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The Austria international, who could make his debut against Palace, will provide both cover and competition during Eriksen's absence, meaning United have not been left too light on midfield options. Sabitzer, who turns 29 next month, was an attainable target for manager Erik ten Hag, given that the majority of his appearances for Bayern this season have come as a substitute.
Despite that, Bayern ace Muller has revealed that he and his teammates were shocked by his sudden deadline day departure from the Allianz Arena.
"The team was surprised," Muller told Kicker. "It happened very quickly.
"I'm happy for Sabi that he's moving to Manchester United, getting a chance to play there. Manchester is a huge name."
Sabitzer, who joined Bayern from fellow German outfit RB Leipzig in August 2021, has played 24 times for Bayern in all competitions this season, scoring one goal and registering one assist. He has struggled to produce the attacking numbers he was recognised for at Leipzig, but Muller is adamant that his Bayern career is far from over.
Muller added: "He'll be back in the summer. The chapter isn't over yet."
In total, Sabitzer has made 54 appearances for Bayern, scoring two goals and grabbing two assists. He is under contract until the summer of 2025.
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