Moroccan international Ismael Saibairi has addressed growing speculation about tensions within the national team following a controversial on-field incident involving fellow Moroccan Oussama Targhalline.
The incident occurred during PSV Eindhoven’s 3-0 victory over Feyenoord in the 21st round of the Dutch Eredivisie, where both players were key performers.
The moment that drew attention was a forceful challenge by Targhalline on Saibairi, widely shared across social media. Observers described the tackle as unusually aggressive, far beyond typical match contact, sparking questions about the relationship between the two players.
Many fans linked the incident to previous reports of a tense atmosphere within the Moroccan squad during the last international camp, particularly after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, suggesting that off-field friction could have spilled onto the pitch.
Saibairi responded to the controversy in a calm and clever manner, posting a photo with Targhalline on his official Instagram story with the single word: “Brother.” The gesture was widely praised as an effort to quash rumors and reaffirm team unity.
Saibairi played a pivotal role in Morocco’s run to the 2025 AFCON final, appearing in all six matches, starting in each, and scoring a crucial goal against Cameroon in the quarter-finals.
His performances in the Netherlands have mirrored his international form; Saibairi has netted 13 goals and provided four assists in 25 appearances across all competitions for PSV Eindhoven this season.
As a central figure in coach Peter Bosz’s plans, Saibairi has become indispensable for Eindhoven while maintaining his standing as one of Morocco’s key attacking threats.
His measured response to the Targhalline incident underscores his maturity and commitment to maintaining harmony within a squad still recovering from AFCON disappointment, sending a strong message about professionalism and team cohesion.
