Full Name
Ismael Saibari Ben El Basra
Date of Birth
28 January 2001
Place of Birth
Terrassa, Catalonia, Spain
Nationality
Morocco
Height
1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
Position
Attacking Midfielder • Central Midfielder • Winger
Current Club (June 2026)
PSV Eindhoven
Biography
Ismael Saibari is one of the most exciting Moroccan footballers of the new generation and has emerged as a key player for both PSV Eindhoven and the Morocco national team. Born in Spain to Moroccan parents, Saibari spent much of his youth in Belgium, where he developed his football skills in the academies of Beerschot, Anderlecht, Mechelen, and Genk before joining PSV Eindhoven in 2020.
Unlike many modern attacking midfielders, Saibari combines technical creativity with physical power. His ability to drive through midfield, score goals, create chances, and win duels has made him one of the most complete young midfielders in European football. PSV coaches have repeatedly praised his rare combination of strength, technique, and tactical intelligence.
Saibari first made his name with Jong PSV before earning promotion to the first team. During the 2023–24 and 2024–25 seasons he became a regular starter, helping PSV dominate Dutch football and win multiple Eredivisie titles. His breakthrough in Europe came when he scored twice against Rangers in a Champions League qualifier and later scored his first Champions League goal against Sevilla.
The 2025–26 season elevated him further. He contributed heavily in goals and assists, won individual recognition in the Netherlands, and was voted Eredivisie Golden Shoe winner by former Dutch internationals.
Internationally, Saibari chose to represent Morocco despite being eligible for Spain and Belgium. He starred for Morocco's U-23 team, helping them win the 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations before becoming a regular member of the senior national team. He was also part of Morocco's victorious AFCON 2025 squad.
Playing Style
- Powerful ball carrier
- Excellent dribbler in tight spaces
- Creative passer
- Strong long-range shooter
- Can play multiple attacking positions
- High pressing intensity
Why He Is Special
Many scouts view Saibari as a rare modern midfielder who combines the physical qualities of a box-to-box midfielder with the creativity of a No. 10. His performances have attracted interest from several European giants, including Bayern Munich
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