World Cup 2026: ‘We will be very proud’ – Mohamed Ouahbi welcomes Ismael Saibari’s imminent Bayern move

Ismael Saibari is on the verge of sealing a major switch from PSV Eindhoven to Bayern Munich in a deal reported to be worth around €55 million, with the Morocco international already said to have completed a medical in the United States while on World Cup duty.

The 25-year-old’s rapid rise on the international stage has been matched by growing attention from Europe’s elite, and Bayern’s pursuit now appears close to completion.

Despite the magnitude of the move, Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi insists the situation remains formally unresolved.

“We don’t decide the timing, of course, but it is not official yet,” Ouahbi said, according to AFP.

Focus remains on Morocco duty

While transfer talks dominate headlines, Saibari’s attention has remained firmly on international duty, where he has already made a decisive impact. The midfielder-forward scored in Morocco’s opening 1-1 draw against Brazil, reinforcing his importance to the squad in a demanding tournament environment.

Ouahbi was keen to stress that neither the player nor the national setup has allowed speculation to interfere with performance levels, highlighting a calm and professional mindset within the camp.

“The player is very calm about it all, and I don’t think Bayern have been very aggressive in their communication. He is concentrating on playing for Morocco.”

Pride from the national team camp

For Morocco, the prospect of one of their key players joining a European heavyweight is being viewed as a broader validation of the country’s growing influence in world football. Ouahbi underlined the sense of national pride that would accompany the completion of the transfer.

“We are really proud when Moroccan players are able to play for big clubs like Bayern Munich.”

The coach also pointed to his personal connection within the Bayern setup, suggesting a shared understanding of priorities during a major international tournament.

“I am lucky enough to know [Bayern coach] Vincent Kompany very well. I think he understands that the priority right now is Morocco, but we will be very proud when it is done, and we want the best Moroccan players at the best clubs,” added the Morocco coach.

Key role still ahead in tournament

Despite the transfer anticipation building off the pitch, Saibari is expected to remain central to Morocco’s plans on it.

He is likely to feature again when they face Scotland on Saturday, where his form and composure will again be under scrutiny as both club and country narratives continue to converge.