Saibari Joins Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich has officially announced the signing of Ismael Saibari, the Morocco international midfielder, from PSV Eindhoven. Saibari has agreed to a long-term contract with the German club, which will keep him at the Allianz Arena until June 2031. This move marks a significant investment for Bayern, securing a player who has garnered attention for his performances.
According to reports, the transfer fee for Saibari is in the region of €50m, with potential for it to increase to €52m through performance-related bonuses. This places him among some of the most expensive signings in the club’s history. Another report indicates a fee that could rise to €55 million. Max Eberl, Bayern’s board member for sport, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating that the club had identified Saibari early due to his skills and had presented him with a clear vision for his future at Bayern. Eberl believes Saibari will bring additional quality and unpredictability to the team’s attacking play.
Christoph Freund, Bayern’s sporting director, highlighted Saibari’s track record, noting his three consecutive Dutch championship titles with Eindhoven and his Champions League experience. Freund also emphasized Saibari’s current form at the World Cup, describing him as versatile, intense, and bold in his play, possessing the hunger and goal threat desired at Bayern. Saibari himself acknowledged the influence of coach Vincent Kompany in his decision, stating that joining Bayern, one of the world’s biggest clubs, was a childhood dream and that he aims to win as many trophies as possible.
Career Highlights and International Impact
Saibari arrives in Munich following a successful period in the Netherlands with PSV. During his tenure, he contributed significantly with 42 goals and 29 assists, playing a key role in the club’s three league titles. He was also named the Dutch Footballer of the Year. His club form has extended to the international stage, where he has been a crucial player for Morocco during their current World Cup campaign in North America.
The midfielder has made an impact in the tournament, scoring against Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. He also converted the decisive penalty in the shootout victory over the Netherlands in the round of 16, which advanced Morocco to the next stage. With 33 caps and 12 goals for Morocco, Saibari is recognized as one of the clinical finishers from the continent. He was part of the Morocco squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations title.
The 25-year-old, born on January 28, 2001, has demonstrated versatility on the field, capable of operating as a box-to-box midfielder, an advanced playmaker, or even a false nine. His playing style has drawn comparisons to Jude Bellingham due to his blend of attacking drive, physical power, and technical quality. Saibari excels at carrying the ball through midfield, utilizing his athleticism, dribbling, and strength to create scoring opportunities.
Player Profile and Future Prospects
Saibari’s journey to Bayern follows a six-year progression at PSV Eindhoven, where he moved from PSV Jong in the Dutch second tier to become a key first-team player. He was awarded the 2026 Eredivisie Player of the Year. His international career has seen him represent Morocco at various levels, including two caps at Under-20 and 12 at U23, where he helped Morocco win the U23 Africa Cup of Nations.
Saibari holds triple citizenship—Spanish, Belgian, and Moroccan—but chose to represent his parents’ homeland internationally. His commitment and professionalism have been noted by former Morocco head coach Walid Regragui, who described him as disciplined and hardworking. PSV head coach Peter Bosz also praised Saibari’s ability to consistently get into scoring positions and his high efficiency.
The midfielder wears the No.34 shirt at club level as a tribute to Abdelhak ‘Appie’ Nouri, a former Ajax midfielder whose career was cut short due to a cardiac arrest. Saibari’s move to Bayern Munich positions him to compete for major titles, including the Champions League, in the upcoming seasons.
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Source: goal.com
