PSV has reached an agreement with FC Bayern Munich regarding the transfer of Ismael Saibari. The 25-year-old midfielder has signed a five-season contract with the German powerhouse. For PSV, the move marks a record transfer.
In the summer of 2020, Saibari made the move from KRC Genk to PSV U21. In Eindhoven, the Moroccan talent developed into a world-class player, making a major contribution to three national titles. Saibari also regularly made his mark in the UEFA Champions League with goals, assists, and other decisive plays—as has once again been the case in recent weeks during the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The technically skilled powerhouse is now ready for the next step in his career.
“It’s a departure with mixed feelings,” says Saibari after finalizing his dream transfer. “Bayern Munich is an incredibly wonderful club, and I’m really looking forward to hitting the gas there. At the same time, I’m going to miss a lot of people at PSV very much. Over the years, Eindhoven has come to feel like home. I’ve had an unforgettable time here and been given amazing opportunities. This club has given me the chance to develop into the person and football player I am today. I want to thank everyone involved—from staff to fans—from the bottom of my heart for your endless support. Even though I’m leaving, you’ll definitely see me again.”
Director of Football Operations Earnest Stewart describes Saibari as a role model for many young talents at PSV. “Ismael is a wonderful example of what can happen when talent, character, and a strong work ethic come together. We’ve watched him grow from a promising young player into a key player at the highest level. His contribution to our successes has been enormous, but just as remarkable is the way he has developed as a person. It’s never easy to say goodbye to someone who has become so instrumental to PSV, but this move is fully in line with his ambitions and the path we’ve mapped out together. We are proud of Ismael and of the fact that PSV is once again sending a player to a club among the absolute best in the world. We wish him all the very best in this next phase of his career.”