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Morocco’s coach Mohamed Ouahbi has emphasized that forward Ismael Saibari remains fully committed to the ongoing FIFA World Cup, despite ongoing reports linking him to a high-profile transfer to German giants Bayern Munich. Ouahbi addressed the media on Jeudi, ahead of Morocco’s crucial Group C clash against Scotland at the Gillette Stadium on Friday.
“We don’t decide the timing of course, but it is not official yet,” Ouahbi stated, underlining that while the move is anticipated, no formal announcement has been made. He also expressed pride in seeing Moroccan talent reach elite European clubs, remarking, “We are really proud when Moroccan players are able to play for big clubs like Bayern Munich.”
Saibari, aged 25, made a significant impact by scoring Morocco’s lone goal in their opening match, which ended in a 1-1 draw against Brazil last Samedi. Born in Spain and raised in Belgium, the forward enjoyed a standout season with PSV Eindhoven, netting 19 goals across all competitions and playing a key role in securing the Dutch league title.
Transfer Speculation and Focus on the World Cup
Multiple sources suggest that Bayern Munich have reached an agreement to sign Saibari, with the transfer contingent on a successful medical examination. Despite the buzz surrounding the deal, Ouahbi highlighted the player’s calm demeanor and singular attention to his national team commitments. “The player is really calm about it all, and I don’t think Bayern have been very aggressive in terms of their communication. He is concentrating on playing for Morocco,” the coach explained.
Ouahbi, who hails from Brussels, shares a close relationship with Bayern’s Belgian coach, Vincent Kompany. He acknowledged Kompany’s understanding of Saibari’s current priorities, stating, “I am lucky enough to know Vincent Kompany very well. I think he understands that the priority right now is Morocco, but we will be very proud when it is done and we want the best Moroccan players at the best clubs.”
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