The Reds' former interim manager spoke at a press conference to preview the country's second European Championship qualifier, which takes place against Estonia in Linz on Monday night.
Sabitzer was withdrawn towards the end of the 4-1 win over Azerbaijan, after scoring twice and also providing an assist, when proudly wearing the captain's armband.
Both Sabitzer and defender Gernot Trauner were forced out of the final training session before the qualifier, with Rangnick revealing they suffered knocks.
"In the end, it is a question of pain and pain tolerance for both Marcel and Gernot," he said.