PSV coach fires back at Ismael Saibari critics with stunning fitness verdict

PSV Eindhoven fitness coach Eddie Peebles has strongly dismissed criticism surrounding the physique of Moroccan midfielder Ismael Saibari, insisting the player is one of the most physically impressive athletes he has worked with.

Speaking in an interview with Voetbal International, Peebles delivered a passionate defence of Saïbari, whose body shape has occasionally drawn scrutiny from observers. According to the experienced conditioning expert, such claims are not only misleading but entirely unfounded.

“Some claim he’s overweight, but I assure you, he doesn’t have a single gram of fat,” Peebles said emphatically. “He’s a real beast—pure muscle. His glutes, his legs… it’s unbelievable.”

Peebles, who has worked with numerous professional footballers across different levels, explained that Saïbari’s physique stands out even among elite athletes. His build, often misunderstood from the outside, is in fact a product of natural strength, muscle density, and intense conditioning.

Beyond his physical attributes, the PSV staff member also praised Saïbari’s mentality and resilience—qualities that further underline his value to the team. He described the midfielder as a player who thrives through discomfort and rarely complains, even when dealing with knocks and minor injuries.

“Even when I’m treating him and trying to be careful because he’s taken a heavy hit, he tells me to keep going,” Peebles revealed. “He’s not the type to complain.”

Such comments highlight not only Saïbari’s physical toughness but also his professionalism and commitment—traits that have contributed to his growing importance within the PSV squad.

Interestingly, Peebles noted that while Saïbari is among the most physically powerful players at the club, there is one teammate who pushes the boundaries even further—veteran Croatian star Ivan Perisic.

Describing Perišić as an “exceptional case,” Peebles pointed to his relentless dedication to maintaining peak fitness levels. “He works non-stop on his body,” he said, adding that the Croatian spends more time than anyone else focusing on training and physical preparation.

The remarks from PSV’s fitness coach not only silence critics but also shed light on the unseen work behind the scenes, where players like Saibari are building elite-level conditioning that may not always be obvious to the public eye.

As debates around player physiques continue in modern football, Peebles’ strong endorsement serves as a reminder that performance, strength, and endurance often matter far more than appearance—and in Saibari’s case, the numbers and expert opinion clearly speak for themselves.