Competition for the Bayern No. 10: Saibari Puts Pressure on Brown | OneFootball

Ismael Saibari is really hitting his stride at FC Bayern. In the 5-1 win over VfB Stuttgart, the summer signing needed just 29 minutes to make a lasting impression with two assists. Now the Moroccan is pushing for a spot in the starting lineup—and, in doing so, is putting increased pressure on Nathaniel Brown.

After his injury-related hiatus following the World Cup, Saibari was initially brought on for nine minutes in the Super Cup against Borussia Dortmund. Against Stuttgart, he was given significantly more playing time and impressively demonstrated why Munich spent around 50 million euros on him.

Saibari himself feels that his physical condition is steadily improving. “I’m getting fitter and fitter; I feel good,” the attacking player explained after his home debut. Looking ahead to a possible spot in the starting lineup, he added confidently: “It’s up to the coach now…”

Saibari is turning up the pressure on Brown

Nathaniel Brown likely took note of that statement as well. The new signing from Eintracht Frankfurt was recently able to start in the number 10 position due to Jamal Musiala’s absence. Brown had already impressed in this unfamiliar role during the Super Cup against BVB and even scored a goal.

The 23-year-old once again played in the attacking midfield against Stuttgart. Brown by no means had a bad game. Nevertheless, after the final whistle, Saibari was one of the main topics of conversation.

In particular, his assist on Aleksandar Pavlovic’s goal—which made it 4-1—demonstrated the Moroccan’s qualities. Saibari first broke through and then showed the necessary vision to set up Pavlovic with a perfect pass. He later added another assist for Luis Díaz.

This means Kompany is increasingly spoiled for choice at the number 10 position. Brown has established himself there in recent weeks, while Saibari is now getting closer and closer to peak physical form following his injury layoff.

Eberl raves about Saibari’s special qualities

Photo: Getty Images

Max Eberl was also impressed after the Stuttgart game. The Bayern sporting director made it clear that Saibari isn’t yet at 100 percent physically—and that’s precisely why his performances are all the more remarkable.

“You could tell from his sprint that he’s not quite there physically yet. But when you pull off a move like that in that condition and still keep your composure, that’s really special,” Eberl gushed.

This presents Vincent Kompany with a “luxury problem.” Brown and Saibari have both shown in a very short time that they can make an immediate impact for the record champions. On top of that, both new signings can play in multiple positions and thus don’t have to compete exclusively for the same spot.

Until Jamal Musiala is available again, however, the attacking midfield offers plenty of opportunities for playing time. Brown currently has the edge there. But after two assists in less than half an hour, Saibari has now made it clear that he’s ready for more.

As the Moroccan himself says, the decision now lies with the coach. In any case, after Saibari’s strong home debut, Kompany’s decision is unlikely to have gotten any easier.