World Cup 2026: Ismael Saibari misses start of Morocco training ahead of Scotland clash

Morocco’s preparations for their crucial World Cup 2026 Group C encounter against Scotland have drawn attention after Ismaell Saibari was absent from the opening phase of the team’s training session in New Jersey.

The PSV Eindhoven striker, who scored in Morocco’s 1-1 draw against Brazil in the opening round, did not take part in the first 15 minutes of training that were open to the media on Tuesday, as the Atlas Lions continued their build-up to the match scheduled for Friday in Boston.

Saibari Works Separately From Squad

While Morocco’s players arrived on the pitch together and began training in an energetic atmosphere, Saibari remained inside the gym during the initial stages of the session.

A member of the national team’s coaching staff confirmed that the forward would join the group later, with no immediate concerns raised about his availability for the upcoming fixture.

His absence from the pitch at the start of training sparked interest, especially given his growing importance in Morocco’s attacking setup.

Transfer Talk Surrounds Moroccan Forward

Saibari’s situation comes amid increasing speculation surrounding his club future, with reports linking him to a possible move to Bayern Munich.

Local media have suggested that the player could undergo a medical examination by Bayern’s medical staff in the United States as talks progress over a potential transfer.

According to reports from German newspaper Bild, Bayern Munich have already reached an agreement with PSV Eindhoven over a deal worth around 55 million euros, including bonuses, with the player expected to sign a contract running until 2031.

Dutch outlet Inside Eindhoven has also reported that the transfer is close to completion, with only minor details remaining between all parties involved.

Bayern Interest Driven by Kompany Influence

German media have highlighted that Bayern’s interest in Saibari was strongly influenced by head coach Vincent Kompany.

Reports suggest that Saibari was not originally among Bayern’s top transfer targets, with the club initially focusing on strengthening wide positions rather than midfield.

However, Kompany is said to have pushed for the signing after being impressed by the Moroccan midfielder, particularly following Bayern’s Champions League meeting with PSV Eindhoven earlier in the year.

Sources cited in German media indicate that Kompany personally advocated for the transfer, convincing the club hierarchy to approve the deal.

Saibari’s Rise at Club and International Level

Born in Terrassa, Spain, Saibari began his football journey at a young age before moving to Belgium, where he developed through the youth systems of Beerschot, Anderlecht, Mechelen and Genk.

He joined PSV Eindhoven in 2020, where he has since made 142 appearances, scoring 42 goals and winning multiple Eredivisie titles along with several domestic Super Cups.

At international level, Saibari has earned 31 caps for Morocco, scoring 10 goals and establishing himself as a key figure in the Atlas Lions squad.

As Morocco prepare for their meeting with Scotland, attention will now turn to whether the midfielder’s brief training absence is purely precautionary or part of a carefully managed preparation plan ahead of a crucial World Cup fixture.