FC Bayern invested heavily in Nathaniel Brown and Ismael Saibari this summer. After the first competitive matches of the new season, there are strong indications that these investments could pay off. Both new signings have integrated into Vincent Kompany’s team remarkably quickly.
In the 5-1 victory over VfB Stuttgart, Saibari was the star of the show. The Moroccan came on as a substitute in the 61st minute and went on to set up two goals. First, he set up Aleksandar Pavlovic, followed by another assist for Luis Díaz.
After the final whistle, Pavlovic was understandably enthusiastic about his new teammates. “Nene and Isi—top-notch players who are really helping us out. They did a great job today, too,” the 22-year-old gushed.
Saibari needs hardly any time to get into the groove
Saibari’s impact on the game was particularly impressive. The new signing from PSV Eindhoven needed hardly any time after coming on as a substitute to adjust to the fast pace of the match.
Saibari immediately showcased his skill on Pavlovic’s goal. “Isi came right in and had two assists,” the German national team player praised his new teammate.
Saibari’s strong Bundesliga debut doesn’t come as a complete surprise. Vincent Kompany was already convinced of the attacking player’s qualities before he was signed. Bayern had been scouting the Moroccan for some time before finally making a move this summer.
Brown, too, has quickly become an important option for Kompany. The new signing from Eintracht Frankfurt was originally brought in primarily for the left side, but is currently impressing in a much more offensive role.
Brown was already given the chance to play as the number 10 in the Super Cup against Borussia Dortmund, where he scored the opening goal. Kompany was thrilled afterward: “Nene is an incredibly smart player. He moves well between the lines and he scores goals.”
Pavlovic: “We’re glad they’re here”
Against Stuttgart, the Bayern coach once more deployed Brown in the attacking midfield. Although the new signing didn’t score this time, he repeatedly created danger. Brown had his best chance in the 38th minute, when he was denied by the VfB goalkeeper after a pass from Alphonso Davies.
For Pavlovic, it’s already clear that both new signings are bringing added quality to the Bayern squad. “That’s why they can both be proud of themselves, and we’re glad they’re here,” the midfielder explained.
Brown and Saibari’s first appearances also send a positive signal regarding Max Eberl’s transfer policy. In total, the Munich club invested around 105 million euros in the duo—a considerable sum that comes with correspondingly high expectations.
Of course, it’s still far too early for a final assessment after just a few competitive matches. However, Brown and Saibari have needed hardly any time to settle in. Both also provide Kompany with exactly the flexibility that the Bayern coach values.
While Brown can be deployed both defensively and offensively, Saibari also offers multiple options in attack and midfield. The first few weeks already give a glimpse into why Bayern was willing to dig deep into its pockets for the duo.