Ismael Saibari injury raises fears of lengthy lay-off

Ismael Saibari could miss several weeks after sustaining an injury during Bayern Munich’s Klassiker against Borussia Dortmund, with early comments from the club suggesting the problem may be more serious than first thought.

The 25-year-old Morocco international was forced off in the 29th minute and was later seen leaving the Bayern Munich stadium on crutches. His condition has raised concern ahead of Morocco’s next international camp.

German journalist Maximilian Koch reported that Saibari departed the stadium using crutches after the match. Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl also indicated that the injuries suffered by Saibari and Serge Gnabry were significant.

“The two injuries are somewhat more serious,” Eberl said, adding that Michael Olise’s problem appeared to be less concerning.

There is not yet an official diagnosis. Thamer Al-Shahrani, a physiotherapist specialising in sports injuries, examined footage of the incident and suggested on social media that Saibari could have suffered substantial damage to the ligaments in his ankle, potentially including a rupture.

He also raised the possibility of an injury to the knee ligaments. However, those observations do not represent a formal medical assessment. Further tests will be required to establish the precise nature of the injury, its severity and how long Saibari may be unavailable.

Blow for Bayern and Morocco

The injury comes at a particularly damaging time for Saibari, who had become an important player for Bayern Munich this season. He has scored two goals and provided three assists in eight Bundesliga appearances.

He has also developed a central role in Morocco’s attacking system under manager Mohamed Ouahbi. The former PSV Eindhoven player has been used prominently as a false nine for the Lions of the Atlas.

His involvement in Morocco’s November gathering and the two matches against Niger now appears highly doubtful, although no official withdrawal has been announced.

The Morocco coaching staff will await the results of Saibari’s medical examinations before assessing his availability. If a serious ligament injury is confirmed, his absence could extend well beyond the next international break.