Will he play against France? Morocco announces decision on Saibari | OneFootball

FC Bayern will have to do without Ismael Saibari for the time being. The new signing will miss the World Cup quarterfinal between Morocco and France due to injury. National team coach Mohamed Ouahbi officially confirmed his absence on Thursday.

While there had recently been hope that he might return in time, it is now certain: Ismael Saibari will not be available for Morocco’s World Cup quarterfinal against France.

National team coach Mohamed Ouahbi explained at the pre-match press conference: “Apart from Saibari, everyone is ready to play. We have to rely on players who are 100 percent fit. For Saibari, however, this game comes too soon. But I hope he won’t be sidelined for the rest of the tournament.”

A muscle strain sidelines the new Bayern signing

The 25-year-old suffered a minor muscle strain in the Round of 16 against Canada (3–0) and had to be substituted early in the game. Afterward, Saibari worked intensively toward his return. Most recently, there was even optimism that he might be able to play against France.

However, those hopes have now been dashed.

Bayern hopes for a quick return

Photo: IMAGO

For FC Bayern, however, the news isn’t entirely negative. Ouahbi’s comments suggest that the injury isn’t serious. Rather, Saibari is being rested so he’ll be available again should the team advance to the semifinals.

The attacking player has been one of the biggest surprises of the tournament so far. With three goals, the record champion’s new signing quickly made a name for himself and played a decisive role in Morocco’s strong performance.

At Säbener Straße, too, hopes are now high that Saibari will make a full recovery from his muscle injury and return to Munich for preseason training without any further setbacks.