While negotiations between FC Bayern and PSV Eindhoven are in full swing, Ismael Saibari has impressively promoted himself on the biggest stage in world soccer. In Morocco’s 1-1 draw against Brazil, the 25-year-old was one of the standout players of the match—and is likely to have once again convinced the decision-makers in Munich of his qualities.
Talks between Bayern and PSV remain in the decisive phase. While a full agreement on the transfer fee is still pending, all parties involved are essentially working toward a transfer.
While negotiations continue behind the scenes, Saibari delivered another convincing performance on the field.
Dream goal against Brazil
In Morocco’s World Cup opener against record-holding world champions Brazil, the attacking midfielder started the match and quickly demonstrated why Vincent Kompany is so keen to bring him to Munich.
The highlight of his performance came when the North Africans took the lead. After a cleverly executed attack, Saibari kept his cool in front of Brazil’s goalkeeper Alisson and lifted the ball spectacularly over the keeper and into the net.
It was not only his first goal at a World Cup, but also a high-quality strike against one of the tournament’s most prestigious opponents.
Even aside from his goal, Saibari was impressive.
Playing as a false nine, he constantly moved between the lines, made himself available time and again, and provided links between the midfield and the attack. Although he had only 33 touches on the ball overall, he used his actions extremely effectively.
Particularly impressive: 92 percent of his passes found a teammate. A statistic that underscores his technical precision and decision-making.
It is precisely these qualities that make the Moroccan so interesting for FC Bayern.
Kompany’s dream signing
Internally, Saibari has long been considered one of Vincent Kompany’s top targets. The Bayern coach particularly values the attacking player’s versatility.
The 25-year-old can play in central midfield, as a number 10, on either wing, or even as a deep-lying striker. This makes him a perfect fit for the flexible positional play that Kompany wants to establish in Munich.
It is now an open secret that the Belgian strongly supports the transfer internally.
World Cup boosts market value
For PSV Eindhoven, the performance against Brazil likely served as further confirmation of their asking price.
According to reports, the Dutch club continues to demand a transfer fee of just over 50 million euros. After such performances, it is unlikely to become any easier for Bayern to significantly drive down the price.
Against Brazil, Saibari not only showcased his technical skills but also proved that he can hold his own at the highest international level.
The Moroccan had already drawn attention to himself with a spectacular goal in the direct matchup between Bayern and PSV in January.
Now he has delivered another strong performance on the World Cup stage.
For FC Bayern’s management, the message is clear: Ismael Saibari has the quality to take the next step. And that is precisely why the Munich club is working flat out to finalize the transfer in the coming days.