FC Bayern Transfer Scare: World Cup Star Ismael Saibari Injured for Morocco

Could FC Bayern Munich be bracing for a prolonged absence of a high-value new signing?

Ismael Saibari, whose transfer was recently confirmed by the German record champions, was forced off injured early in Morocco's Round of 16 match at the 2026 World Cup against Canada on Saturday.

After approximately fifteen minutes, Saibari appeared to experience muscular problems, seemingly without any contact from an opponent. The attacking player repeatedly grasped his hamstring and was eventually unable to continue midway through the first half.

Before being substituted in the 22nd minute, Saibari received brief treatment on the pitch. He looked dejected and pulled his jersey over his face, possibly indicating fears of a more serious injury for the 25-year-old. Without Saibari, Morocco defeated co-host Canada 3-0 (0-0) and became the first African nation to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the second consecutive time. In 2022 in Qatar, Achraf Hakimi and his teammates ultimately secured fourth place. It remains unclear whether Saibari will be able to return later in the tournament.

Up to this point, Saibari had been one of Morocco's most crucial players at the North American World Cup, holding down a starting spot in the center of attack. In five appearances, the Bayern new signing had already scored three goals, including a strike in the 1-1 draw against record world champions Brazil to open their campaign.

FC Bayern Invested Over 50 Million Euros for Ismael Saibari

Saibari's substitution is likely to cause concern at Säbener Straße as well. It was only on Wednesday that Bayern officially announced the long-anticipated transfer of the Moroccan international. The transfer fee to PSV Eindhoven, including bonus payments, is reportedly just under 55 million Euros, with Saibari signing a five-year contract in Munich until 2031.

The World Cup star is versatile in attack. He can serve as a backup for FCB's top scorer Harry Kane in the number nine role, while also providing a high-quality additional option at number ten and on both wings.

"We are very pleased to have secured one of the most exciting attacking players of this World Cup for FC Bayern in Ismael Saibari," emphasized Bayern's board member for sport, Max Eberl. "Transfers like these are not spontaneous; they result from forward-thinking work. It was crucial that we positioned ourselves early with him because we knew about Ismael's abilities and could show him a clear perspective with us from the outset."