Ismael Saibari makes decisive Bayern Munich cameo in Bundesliga opener

Ismael Saibari made a striking first Bundesliga appearance for Bayern Munich, providing two assists after coming off the bench as Vincent Kompany’s side beat VfB Stuttgart 5-1 at the Allianz Arena on Friday evening.

The Morocco international was introduced in the 61st minute, replacing Nathaniel Brown, with Bayern leading into the second half of the opening Bundesliga fixture. His arrival helped alter the tempo of the match and he played a central role in the home side’s emphatic finish.

Saibari’s first contribution came in the 82nd minute. The midfielder carried the ball into the VfB Stuttgart penalty area and used an excellent piece of skill to evade a challenge from one of the visiting defenders.

Rather than shoot, Saibari chose to create an opportunity for a team-mate. He sent a cross towards Aleksandar Pavlovic, who was able to finish from close range and put Bayern Munich 4-1 ahead.

That assist was not his final involvement. In the second minute of added time, Saibari produced another decisive pass to complete a memorable league debut.

The Moroccan collected possession from Tom Bischof after the ball had been won back in VfB Stuttgart’s half. He then released Luis Diaz, who moved through on goal before placing his shot into the left-hand corner to score Bayern’s fifth goal.

Saibari’s two assists ensured he left the Allianz Arena having made an immediate impact despite beginning the match among the substitutes. His performance also continued an encouraging start to life with the German champions.

The player had already appeared as a substitute in his first match for Bayern Munich, coming on during last Saturday’s German Super Cup victory over Borussia Dortmund. Bayern won that game 2-1, meaning Saibari has now been involved in victories over both Borussia Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart at the beginning of his Bayern career.

Kompany’s decision to bring him on for Brown proved influential as Bayern increased their control after the interval and turned a commanding result into a five-goal performance.

The victory gave Bayern Munich a convincing start to their Bundesliga campaign, while Saibari’s late involvement provided one of the match’s defining stories. His movement inside the area, willingness to pass rather than shoot and accurate delivery for both goals helped set him apart during his 29-minute appearance.

The fifth goal, scored by Luis Diaz in added time, completed Bayern’s 5-1 win and underlined the effectiveness of Saibari’s introduction from the bench.