Bayern: Saibari, “incapable de donner seulement 90 %”

Ismael Saibari is determined to make a quick impression at Bayern Munich. In a lengthy interview with the club’s official magazine, “51”, the Moroccan international expressed his commitment and promised total dedication in his new colors. “What the supporters can expect from me from the start is commitment. I always give 100%. I don’t even think I’m capable of giving only 90%,” he stated, hoping to have already scored “a few goals and provided a few assists” after his first ten matches.

The Atlas Lion also explained the reasons behind his choice. His confrontation with Bayern while playing for PSV Eindhoven last season in the Champions League left a strong impression. “The way the players entered the field, their aura, and their style of play… It was impressive,” Saibari confided. Vincent Kompany also played an important role in his arrival. The Belgian coach assured him that his offensive qualities, defensive work, and ability to project forward matched the Bavarian style. “Vinny told me that it didn’t matter if I made mistakes. The only important thing is to work hard. The rest will come naturally.”

Behind this mentality lies a significant family background. Saibari recounted the long training sessions organized by his father when he was a child, with 70 to 80 left-footed strikes every evening. He also paid a heartfelt tribute to his mother, who took care of him when he had to wear metal shoes to correct the orientation of his feet. “My parents are my greatest role models. They arrived in Spain, then in Belgium, with nothing and knowing no one. Their journey shows that anything is possible,” emphasized the Moroccan midfielder.

Saibari finally spoke about his number 34, worn in tribute to Abdelhak Nouri, who suffered a serious cardiac incident in 2017. Very close to the former Ajax player and his family, the Moroccan even let him choose his number at Bayern. “Abdelhak cannot speak. He communicates with his eyebrows, and it was very clear how happy he was for me. I let him choose the number I would wear at Bayern. He chose 34.”

His celebration also holds personal significance. Conceived with his cousin before his professional debut at PSV, it recalls their childhood swims and the showers taken after their outings at sea. An intimate gesture that Saibari now hopes to replicate regularly in front of the Munich supporters.