Bayern's €55m gamble: Saibari arrives as Kompany eyes Champions glory

In a bustling press conference at the Allianz Arena, Bayern Munich confirmed the arrival of Moroccan forward Ismael Saibari, completing a €55 million deal from PSV and binding him to the club until 2031, a move championed by Belgian captain Vincent Kompany as the German giants chase Champions League glory.

Bayern Munich dominated the German Bundesliga, securing the title without serious opposition and breaking several records along the way. The club also added the DFB‑Pokal to its trophy cabinet, though its Champions League campaign ended in the semi‑finals against eventual winners Paris Saint‑Germain, a disappointment for Vincent Kompany.

Saibari arrived from PSV Eindhoven after amassing 142 appearances, scoring 42 goals and providing 29 assists for the Dutch side. His development included youth spells at KV Mechelen and KRC Genk, where Genk retained a 10 percent sell‑on clause that will yield €5.5 million plus a training fee for the transfer.

Saibari said on the club website, “As a child you dream of signing a contract with a club like FC Bayern – everyone knows it is one of the biggest clubs in the world.” He added that Bayern’s playing style suits him, he will work hard every day, and that Vincent Kompany played an important role in his decision.

Sporting director Christoph Freund highlighted Saibari’s three consecutive Dutch league titles with PSV and his Champions League experience. Freund praised the forward’s versatility, intensity and hunger, asserting that his scoring ability and mentality will give the team a boost and attract fans to the stadium.

At the current World Cup, Saibari has scored in each group‑stage match and was among Morocco’s best performers against the Netherlands. Morocco will meet Canada in the round of 16, where Saibari’s form could be decisive.

The €55 million fee reflects Bayern’s intent to reinforce the squad ahead of another Champions League push, with Kompany hoping the signing will translate domestic dominance into European success. Saibari’s contract runs to 2031, giving the club a long‑term option to build around the Moroccan attacker.

If Saibari adapts quickly, Bayern could see a fresh source of goals as they aim to convert their domestic superiority into continental trophies. The transfer also underscores the club’s willingness to invest heavily in emerging talent to sustain its elite status.