Ismael Saibari’s serious injury dealt a heavy blow to FC Bayern in their 2-2 draw against Borussia Dortmund. The 25-year-old suffered a torn syndesmotic ligament during the Bundesliga classic and has already undergone surgery. Now, BVB goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, who was involved in the unfortunate incident, has reached out to the Bayern star with a personal message.
Saibari was injured on Saturday evening in the first half during a tackle with Kobel. The Moroccan national team player twisted his right ankle and was subsequently unable to walk on his own. After being substituted, he had to be helped off the field and taken to the locker room.
On Sunday, FC Bayern finally confirmed the grim diagnosis. Saibari suffered a torn syndesmotic ligament and has already undergone successful surgery. According to information from BILD, the attacking player is expected to be sidelined for at least three months.
“I’m sorry”: Kobel apologizes to Saibari
Even before the Munich club released the exact diagnosis, Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel spoke out on Instagram.
In his Story, the Swiss national team player sent personal get-well wishes to Saibari and apologized for the unfortunate incident. “I’m sorry to see this. I wish you all the best. Get well soon, Ismael!” wrote the 28-year-old.
It was a gracious gesture from the Dortmund player, which was well received by the injured Bayern player.
Shortly afterward, Saibari also responded via Instagram to the BVB goalkeeper’s message. “Thank you. I really appreciate that!” replied the Moroccan.
This brief exchange shows that, despite the intense sporting rivalry between Bayern and Dortmund, mutual respect remains the priority.
Saibari will be sidelined for at least three months
The fateful incident occurred in the 24th minute of the game. After a big scoring chance, Saibari and Kobel battled for the rebound. In the process, the Bayern star twisted his right foot.
It quickly became clear that the forward had suffered a serious injury. Saibari could no longer put weight on his foot and had to be substituted a few minutes later.
After the game, the summer signing left the Allianz Arena on crutches. Subsequent examinations confirmed the fears.
As reported by BILD, Saibari will be out for at least three months. A return before the end of the calendar year is therefore out of the question.
The loss is particularly bitter for the German record champions. With Jamal Musiala and Luis Díaz already sidelined, the team is missing two key offensive players. Against Dortmund, Serge Gnabry also suffered an injury, while Michael Olise had to be substituted due to an injury as well.
Saibari himself posted from the hospital after his successful surgery and expressed optimism about his upcoming rehabilitation. “The surgery went well! Time to get to work. See you on the field as soon as possible,” the 25-year-old wrote on Instagram.
It will still be some time before he returns. Kobel’s encouraging words should at least give the Bayern star a little courage during this difficult phase.