FC Bayern Munich have completed the signing of Ismael Saibari from PSV Eindhoven for a reported fee of €55 million. The Moroccan international joins the German champions on a permanent deal, arriving after six years with the Dutch club and currently participating in the World Cup in North America.
Saibari, 25, has impressed at the ongoing World Cup, already scoring three goals. The move represents a significant step up for the versatile attacker, who began his footballing journey with Terrassa, a Barcelona suburb, before moving to Belgium with KVC Willebroek-Meerhof and later the RSC Anderlecht academy. He faced early setbacks, being released by Anderlecht just before the season began, with officials reportedly deeming him “too thick.”
Former PSV coach Peter Bosz lauded Saibari’s unique blend of physicality and technique. “If you see him with his butt naked, you see what muscles he has,” Bosz joked to Ziggo Sport, highlighting the player’s impressive physical condition. Bosz also emphasized Saibari’s tactical intelligence and versatility, initially believing he was signing a right winger before realizing his capabilities extended to an offensive midfield role.
Over the past two seasons with PSV Eindhoven, Saibari scored 34 goals and provided 23 assists in 81 appearances, playing a key role in the club’s recent Dutch league successes. His ability to play multiple positions – as a number ten, on the left wing, or as a striker – provides Bayern manager Vincent Kompany with increased tactical flexibility. The signing is expected to intensify competition within the Bayern squad, with Saibari poised to challenge for a starting role alongside players like Harry Kane.
However, Bayern are also acquiring a player with a reputation for disciplinary issues. Bosz previously dropped Saibari from a Champions League squad for repeated tardiness, stating “it had to stop at some point.” Saibari was also involved in a controversial incident at the Africa Cup of Nations, attempting to prevent a Senegalese goalkeeper from receiving a towel during a match, leading to a scuffle with ball boys. He later publicly apologized for his actions. Saibari will be looking to make a positive impact on the pitch, having recently converted a crucial penalty in the World Cup round of sixteen against the Netherlands. His performance at the tournament aims to build momentum for his future at Bayern, competing with players such as Michael Olise and Luis Díaz.
