Bayern’s Saibari faces long term recovery after thigh injury

Ismael Saibari’s pre-season with Bayern Munich is set to be severely disrupted following a worrying injury picked up during the World Cup.

The summer signing from Morocco has been diagnosed with a torn muscle fiber in his thigh, a more serious issue than first anticipated. 

Bayern’s medical team confirmed the extent of the problem, dealing a blow to the German champions as they prepare for the new campaign.

Saibari will continue his recovery in Munich once his vacation ends. He is expected to link up with his new teammates only after the club’s Asia tour concludes on August 8. 

While no firm timeline has been given for his return, the versatile attacker will clearly miss important early training sessions and friendlies, forcing Bayern to adjust their plans.

The timing is particularly frustrating given Saibari’s impressive showing on the international stage. He burst into form during the World Cup, netting three goals in his first four appearances for Morocco. 

His tournament came to a sudden halt when he was forced off in just the 22nd minute of their round-of-16 clash against Canada, a match the North Africans won comfortably 3-0. He was unable to feature in the subsequent quarter-final defeat to France.

Bayern fans and coaching staff had been eagerly anticipating Saibari’s integration into the squad. Known for his technical ability and attacking versatility, he was seen as a valuable addition capable of contributing across the forward line.

Now, the focus shifts to a patient rehabilitation process, with hopes he can regain full fitness without any setbacks.

The injury serves as a reminder of how quickly momentum can shift in football. For Saibari, the priority is clear: recover fully and prepare to make an impact once he finally steps onto the pitch in Bayern colors.