Ismael Saibari to miss Morocco’s AFCON qualifier against Niger after serious injury

Bayern Munich have confirmed that Moroccan midfielder Ismael Saibari has undergone successful surgery after suffering a serious ankle injury during their 2-2 Bundesliga draw against Borussia Dortmund.

As a result of the injury, the attacker will miss Morocco’s upcoming double-header against Niger in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The 25-year-old sustained a tear of the syndesmosis ligament in his right ankle during Saturday’s encounter at the Allianz Arena on October 31, with the injury expected to keep him out of action for an extended period.

Although Bayern have not provided an official recovery timeline, German newspaper Bild reports that Saibari could be sidelined for at least three months, in a major setback for the Moroccan international.

The midfielder was forced off during the match after appearing to twist his right ankle. He received treatment on the pitch before being substituted and was later seen leaving the stadium on crutches.

In a statement issued on Sunday, November 1, Bayern confirmed the extent of the injury and announced that the Moroccan had already undergone surgery.

“Saibari and Gnabry will be missing from FC Bayern for the time being,” the club said in its statement.

Three-month absence expected for Moroccan international

According to Bild, Saibari faces a minimum three-month spell on the sidelines as he begins his recovery from the ankle operation.

The reported timeframe would mean a lengthy rehabilitation period for the midfielder, although Bayern are yet to officially confirm how long he will be unavailable.

His recovery will be closely monitored by the club’s medical team, with his return to training and competitive action dependent on his progress following surgery.

The injury is also a concern for Morocco, who could be without the midfielder for upcoming international commitments as the national team continues its preparations.

Gnabry also injured in Bayern’s draw against Dortmund

Saibari was not the only Bayern player to suffer an injury during the meeting with Borussia Dortmund.

German winger Serge Gnabry was forced off just two minutes after the Moroccan’s departure, with Bayern later confirming that he had sustained a muscle injury in the back of his left thigh.

French playmaker Michael Olise also appeared to experience a muscle problem late in the encounter, although the club’s official statement addressed the injuries to Saibari and Gnabry.

The injuries have added to Bayern’s concerns following a frustrating evening against their Bundesliga rivals, with the German champions unable to secure victory after the contest ended 2-2.