Ismail Saibari crowned Eredivisie Player of the Year after dominant season with PSV Eindhoven

Morocco international Ismail Saibari has been officially recognised as the standout performer in Dutch football after winning the prestigious “Golden Boot” award for best player in the Eredivisie following a sensational season with PSV Eindhoven.

The midfielder secured the award by a significant margin in a vote conducted by a panel of 35 former Netherlands international players, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most in-form midfielders.

The long-running award, organised for over 40 years by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf in collaboration with the Dutch football authorities, is regarded as one of the most respected individual honours in Dutch football.

This year’s voting panel included legendary figures from multiple generations of Dutch football, including stars from the 1974, 1978, and 2010 World Cup finals, as well as members of the Euro 1988-winning squad.

Saibari’s performances earned widespread admiration across Dutch football, with iconic names such as Ruud Gullit, Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart, and Roy Makaay all ranking him at the top of their selections.

Former Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk also publicly praised the Moroccan midfielder’s development and influence throughout the campaign, further highlighting his growing reputation on the European stage.

In total, 27 of the 35 panel members voted Saibari as the best player in the Eredivisie, describing him as a “complete footballer” following a season defined by consistency, creativity, and decisive contributions in key matches.

He finished ahead of emerging talents such as Micah Godts and teammate Joey Veerman, while experienced Croatian star Ivan Perišić placed fourth after a strong campaign with PSV. Feyenoord striker Ayase Ōyeda also featured in the top five after scoring 25 goals in an impressive individual season despite his club’s mixed fortunes.

The award further underlines PSV Eindhoven’s dominance in Dutch football this season, with Saibari playing a central role in their success through his dynamic midfield presence, attacking intelligence, and ability to influence games in the final third.

Following the announcement, Saibari also reflected on the key influence of PSV head coach Peter Bosz, crediting him for his development and improved consistency throughout the campaign.

Speaking to VoetbalPrimeur, the Moroccan international admitted that Bosz’s demanding but supportive approach played a major role in shaping his performances this season.

“He was very important to me. He always told me that if I played with focus, with a smile, and gave my best, I could reach the top,” Saibari said.

He added: “At times, that wasn’t the case, so I would sit on the bench.”

The 2026 edition of the award further strengthens Saibari’s growing reputation in European football and raises expectations ahead of future international competitions, where he is expected to play a key role for Morocco national football team, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon