Ismael Saibari has been shortlisted for the Eredivisie Player of the Year award following a standout season with PSV Eindhoven.
The Moroccan international’s consistent impact has placed him among the league’s most influential players, earning him recognition at the highest individual level in Dutch football.
Saibari has played a central role in PSV’s impressive campaign, registering 13 goals and 14 assists across all competitions. His creativity, vision, and ability to influence games in the final third have been pivotal to the club’s attacking strategy.
Whether operating as an advanced midfielder or a supporting forward, the 23-year-old has delivered performances that have drawn praise from pundits, fans, and rivals alike.
The Player of the Year award, one of the most prestigious honours in Dutch domestic football, is determined using a combination of Opta performance data and the KPN Man of the Match ratings. The final decision will be made by the captains of the 18 Eredivisie clubs, adding a layer of peer recognition to the accolade.
Saibari is joined on the shortlist by some of the league’s top talents. Ajax duo Davy Klaassen and Kenneth Taylor, Feyenoord winger Igor Paixão, and FC Twente’s attacking midfielder Sem Steijn round out the list of nominees.
Each has made a notable contribution to their respective teams, but Saibari’s all-around influence has arguably set him apart.
This nomination marks a significant milestone in Saibari’s career. Having grown into a regular starter under PSV’s tactical setup, the Moroccan playmaker has shown growth not just in statistics but in maturity and leadership on the pitch.
His technical ability, quick decision-making, and work ethic have made him a reliable presence for the Eindhoven side, particularly in key matches throughout the season.
Saibari’s rise to prominence in the Eredivisie also reflects the growing influence of Moroccan talent in European football. His performances have not only impressed domestically but have also enhanced his profile on the international stage.
As part of Morocco’s national team setup, his continued development in one of Europe’s top leagues will only strengthen his case for regular inclusion.
For PSV, Saibari’s emergence has come at a crucial time, as the club continues to push for domestic success and European relevance.
His ability to link midfield and attack, along with his eye for goal, has provided balance and unpredictability in the final third.
As the season nears its conclusion, attention now turns to the final vote. Should Saibari be chosen by the league’s captains, it would not only affirm his individual excellence but also highlight his transformation into one of the Eredivisie’s most valuable assets.
Regardless of the outcome, his nomination alone confirms his place among the elite performers in Dutch football this season—a testament to his talent, dedication, and impact at PSV.
