Ismael Saibari made a splash for FC Bayern in his very first Bundesliga game. Although he “only” came on as a substitute, he racked up two assists right away. And he also earned plenty of praise, including from expert Stefan Effenberg.
The former Bayern pro, who won the UEFA Champions League with the record champions in 2001, is thoroughly impressed by the new signing, who joined Bayern from PSV Eindhoven for around 50 million euros.
The Moroccan made a name for himself at the World Cup this summer, scoring against Brazil, among others. That’s why it was so important that Bayern had the transfer more or less wrapped up before the World Cup, leaving only minor details to be worked out.
Effenberg raves about Saibari
On Sport1’s “Doppelpass,” Effenberg praised Bayern’s new signing. “He has a wealth of experience. He’s already demonstrated that in the Champions League and with the national team. He was immediately welcomed and accepted by the team. You could already see that in those few minutes,” said the expert.
Effenberg is particularly impressed by Saibari’s physical strength. Saibari demonstrated this on the assist for the 4-1 goal, when he held his own in a one-on-one duel with Finn Jeltsch and then played the pass to Aleksandar Pavlovic, who simply had to tap it in.
“He’s coming off an injury from the World Cup. You have to make up for that first, and that takes a little time,” Effenberg added, and he also doesn’t see any potential speed issues with the 25-year-old: “Harry Kane isn’t any faster in terms of top speed either, but these players just approach things a little differently. And that speaks in Saibari’s favor.”
Effenberg is therefore confident that FC Bayern will continue to get a lot out of the attacking player, who is considered something of a free spirit and is expected to bring many creative elements to the record champions’ game.