A Special Story: Why Saibari Wears Number 34 at FC Bayern | OneFootball

FC Bayern has presented its first summer signing: Ismael Saibari. The Moroccan national team player will wear jersey number 34 going forward—a decision that holds special significance for the 25-year-old.

Saibari is currently making a big splash at the World Cup wearing jersey number 11. With three goals in the ongoing tournament, the new signing is among the top forwards.

This number would also have been available at FC Bayern following Nicolas Jackson’s departure. However, Saibari deliberately chose jersey number 34. For the attacking player, the choice is far more than just a number on his back—it is an emotional tribute to his former friend Abdelhak Nouri.

The former Ajax pro suffered cardiac arrest on the field in July 2017 during a friendly match against Werder Bremen. Although Nouri survived the collapse, he suffered severe and permanent brain damage.

Saibari follows in the footsteps of Wagner and Höjbjerg

Photo: FC Bayern

After his introduction, Saibari explained the reasons behind his jersey number. “He survived, but hasn’t been able to move on his own since then,” the Bayern newcomer said of Nouri.

That’s why choosing this number is a matter close to his heart: “By wearing the number 34, I’m supporting him, because it was his last number.”

The jersey number is thus a lasting symbol of solidarity and serves as a reminder of one of the most tragic moments in recent soccer history.

At FC Bayern, the number 34 has historically been worn primarily by youth players. Among others, Sandro Wagner, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, Marco Friedl, and most recently Deniz Ofli have all worn this number for the German record champions.

With Saibari, the number 34 now takes on a very special history—and a deeply personal meaning.