Five languages, family sacrifice and Bayern: Ismael Saibari tells his remarkable story

Morocco international Ismael Saibari has opened up about his unusual journey to Bayern Munich after completing his move from PSV Eindhoven to the German giants.

The 25-year-old attacking midfielder joined Bayern two weeks ago but had to wait before making his full return to team training after suffering a muscle injury while representing Morocco at the World Cup.

Saibari initially trained individually before joining his new team-mates this week, marking another step in his adaptation to life at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Bayern convinced by Saibari’s Champions League display

Bayern sporting director Max Eberl revealed that the German club had been tracking Saibari well before his impressive World Cup performances for Morocco.

The midfielder had already caught Bayern’s attention when PSV faced the Bundesliga side in the Champions League in January.

Saibari scored PSV’s goal in the match, although Bayern eventually won 2-1. His overall performance, rather than just his goal, strengthened the German club’s belief that he could succeed in Munich.

Eberl said: “We had known Ismail for a while, but the knockout blow that convinced us that he was a suitable player for Bayern Munich came in the match that brought us together with Eindhoven.”

He added: “With his style, physical strength, commanding presence, speed, and versatility, he caused us a lot of problems. He has exceptional talent.”

Bayern eventually decided that Saibari was one of their preferred targets as they looked to add greater flexibility to their attacking options.

Eberl said: “We followed the matter closely, and at some point it became clear to us that we wanted to strengthen the attacking side… Ismail was one of our top candidates, and thank God things went well.”

Saibari embraces Bayern challenge

Saibari said he has already settled comfortably into his new surroundings after receiving a warm welcome from his new team-mates and the coaching staff.

“My teammates gave me a warm welcome, and everyone is kind to me, including the coaching staff. I have recovered well, and I am now fully integrated into the team’s training.”

The Morocco international believes Bayern provides the right environment for him to continue developing both on and off the pitch.

“Bayern Munich is one of the biggest clubs in the world. They gave me the confidence that I can develop here as a player and as a person.”

He also expressed his admiration for the attacking style under Vincent Kompany, saying it matches his own qualities.

“They play with a lot of movement and high intensity. I experienced that myself in last season’s matches. They play great football, always exciting, and always looking for scoring opportunities. That’s what I really like.”

Eberl said Saibari’s arrival, alongside the signing of Nathaniel Brown, reflected Bayern’s desire to recruit players capable of operating in different positions.

“Our desire is to focus on flexibility, and to choose players who are able to occupy different positions and add a new dimension to our style of play, which is something we perhaps lacked last season.”

Moroccan star reveals personal struggle

Saibari also shared a deeply personal story during his official presentation, crediting his parents for helping him overcome health difficulties from birth.

“I had problems with my feet when I was born. My parents sacrificed a lot so that I could walk properly and live a normal life. I am very grateful to them. I am also a devout Muslim, I believe in God, and I believe that this was part of His plan.”

The Moroccan’s journey has also been marked by an impressive ability to communicate across cultures.

Saibari speaks English, French, Spanish, Arabic and Dutch and is now working on learning German as quickly as possible.

After overcoming his injury and beginning group training, the Morocco international can now focus fully on establishing himself at Bayern and proving why the European champions saw him as a player capable of adding another dimension to their atta