Saibari Controversy: Why the Bayern Star Was Suspended and Missed the Morocco Match | OneFootball

At the 2026 World Cup in the summer, Ismael Saibari took the stage on the world’s biggest stage. And he impressed. It was a good thing for FC Bayern that they had already largely finalized the Moroccan’s signing beforehand. 

But Saibari hadn’t just played an important role for his national team at the World Cup. That winter, while still with PSV Eindhoven, the attacking player had already impressed with Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations.

And to this day, it remains unclear whether Morocco actually won the title or not. The reason: The Moroccans lost the final on the field. However, because Senegal temporarily left the field, Morocco filed a protest—and it was successful.

Senegal is appealing the decision; the ruling will be handed down on October 8 by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

A scene from the Africa Cup of Nations: Saibari served a suspension

An incident that occurred around the time of the final meant that the Bayern star had to sit out Morocco’s 2-0 victory over Gabon in qualifying for the next Africa Cup of Nations. The forward was suspended.

What happened? It involved an incident in which Moroccan ball boys tried to steal Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towel in the pouring rain. Saibari and Achraf Hakimi were briefly involved in the incident. Saibari later called his behavior “a mistake” and apologized for it.

Photo: IMAGO

He was suspended nonetheless. Originally for two games in CAF competitions, but the suspension was later reduced to one game, which is why Saibari can now play again. This isn’t bad news for FC Bayern, as Saibari is one of the players who isn’t yet at 100% following an injury and could use a bit of playing time to get back into the groove.

Especially since Jamal Musiala is also out. The attacking player suffered a torn muscle fiber while on DFB duty and will be sidelined for three to four weeks, meaning he’ll also miss the first few games after the international break.