Ismael Saibari
A powerful, goal-scoring attacking midfielder who combines strength on the ball with relentless box arrivals.
Playing Style Summary
Saibari is a strong, direct attacking midfielder who can play as a number ten, from the flank or as a second striker. At PSV he won three consecutive Eredivisie titles and was named Eredivisie Player of the Year for 2025-26. At the 2026 World Cup he scored in each of Morocco's three group matches — the first African player to do so — and converted the decisive penalty in the shoot-out win over the Netherlands. Bayern Munich signed him on 1 July 2026 for a reported €55 million on a deal to 2031.
Defining Traits
Physical Ball-Carrier
At 1.85m he shields the ball with his body and drives through challenges, unusual for a creative attacker.
Goal Threat from Midfield
He arrives in the box and finishes like a forward, which explains his double-figure goal seasons at PSV.
Positional Versatility
Comfortable as a number ten, wide forward or second striker — he adapts his movement to the shape around him.
Intensity Without the Ball
Presses aggressively and competes in duels, giving his team energy in the high press.
Strengths
- Strength and balance when carrying the ball
- Goal-scoring from attacking midfield positions
- Versatility across the front line
- Aggressive pressing and duel-winning
- Composure in decisive moments, including penalties
Limitations
- Can be drawn into too many duels and lose possession in crowded areas
- Still adapting to the step up from the Eredivisie to Bayern's level and squad competition
More Morocco players
See the full squad →
Samir El Mourabet
“A tall, left-footed Strasbourg academy product with a futsal player's touch — a deep midfielder who wins the ball and then moves it forward with range and vision.”
Bilal El Khannouss
“A between-the-lines creator with 'eyes in the back of his head' — close control, half-space receptions and the vision to unlock a set defence.”
Neil El Aynaoui
“An energetic, aggressive box-to-box midfielder — intensity off the ball, ground-covering running and the physicality to win the middle of the park.”
Chemsdine Talbi
“A direct, fearless young winger — dribbling, decisive goals and big-moment nerve, from Club Brugge's Champions League run to Sunderland's Premier League rise.”
Soufiane Rahimi
“A direct, penalty-box-hungry forward who attacks from the left or through the middle — Olympic top scorer and Asian champion.”
Gessime Yassine
“U20 world champion and Morocco's youngest ever World Cup scorer — a direct left winger who made the jump from Ligue 2 to the global stage in a single year.”
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