Ismael Saibari of Morocco has been named in the starting lineup for their Round of 32 clash against the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup, as he continues to attract attention from FC Bayern. Both Morocco and the Netherlands progressed from their respective groups with seven points, with Morocco finishing second in Group C behind Brazil on goal difference.
Saibari, who is set to join Bayern in a permanent transfer, has started all three of Morocco’s group stage matches and retained his place for the knockout stage. The Spanish-born attacker has scored in each of those group games against his opponents. His performances have solidified his reputation as a rising star and likely contributed to Bayern’s interest.
The match features a significant Bundesliga presence, with five former players from the German league featuring in the starting lineups. Morocco boast Achraf Hakimi, formerly of Borussia Dortmund, and Bayern’s Noussair Mazraoui in their full-back positions. The Netherlands include Micky van de Ven, previously at Wolfsburg, Ryan Gravenberch, a former Bayern midfielder, and RB Leipzig’s Brian Brobbey.
The confirmed Netherlands XI sees Bart Verbruggen in goal, a defense of Van Hecke, Van Dijk, and Ake, a midfield of Van de Ven, Gravenberch, De Jong, and Dumfries, and an attack led by Summerville, Gakpo, and Brobbey. Morocco’s lineup is anchored by goalkeeper Bono, with Hakimi captaining the side alongside Diop, Riad, and Mazraoui in defense, El Aynaoui and Bouaddi in midfield, and Brahim Diaz, Ounahi, El Khannouss, and Saibari forming the attack.
Saibari’s continued involvement in a major tournament while simultaneously securing a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs highlights his growing profile. This transfer will provide Bayern with an additional attacking option as they look to maintain their dominance in the Bundesliga and compete on the European stage.
