Kobel sends message of support after Saibari suffers serious ankle injury

Gregor Kobel has apologised to Ismael Saibari and wished him a quick recovery after the Bayern Munich forward suffered a serious right ankle injury in the 2-2 draw with Borussia Dortmund.

Bayern Munich confirmed on Sunday that the 25-year-old Morocco international had undergone successful surgery for torn ligaments in his right ankle. He is expected to be out for a lengthy period.

Kobel, 28, contacted Saibari before the full details of the injury were officially announced. The Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper posted a message on his Instagram story which read: “I am truly sorry for what happened. I wish you all the best, get well soon Ismael!”

Saibari replied by sharing Kobel’s message on his own account and writing: “Thank you, I really appreciate it!”

How Saibari was injured

The incident happened in the 26th minute of the match between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. Saibari had just missed a significant opportunity in front of goal when he twisted his right ankle during a challenge with Kobel for a loose ball.

The forward was unable to continue and left the pitch with the assistance of Bayern Munich team doctor Professor Dr Peter Uplaker and physiotherapist Stefan Wickert.

After the final whistle, Saibari was seen leaving the stadium on crutches, prompting fears that he had sustained a serious injury. Medical tests carried out about 16 hours later confirmed the extent of the damage.

According to German newspaper Bild, Saibari will be sidelined for at least three months. That would rule him out for Bayern Munich for the remainder of the year and deprive the team of an important attacking option.

Gnabry adds to Bayern’s injury concerns

Bayern’s problems were compounded during the same match when Serge Gnabry suffered a muscular injury to his left hamstring. The 31-year-old Germany international has become the latest addition to the club’s injury list.

Bild reports that Gnabry is expected to miss between four and six weeks, presenting Bayern’s coaching staff with another challenge as injuries continue to affect their attacking players.

The German side face Atletico Madrid on Tuesday in the UEFA Champions League and will be without four prominent forwards. Alongside Saibari and Gnabry, Luis Diaz is recovering from a tear to the fibres of his left hamstring, while Jamal Musiala has a tear in the fibres of his right hamstring.

Bayern Munich therefore go into the meeting with Atletico Madrid with four significant attacking absences. While the injuries have limited their options at a crucial stage of the season, Kobel’s message to Saibari offered a reminder of the sporting respect between the two clubs beyond their rivalry on the pitch.

The Champions League fixture is scheduled for 03 November 2026.