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SOCCER

Bayern’s Ismael Saibari Makes African Player of the Year Shortlist

The Morocco international is among 10 nominees after helping PSV win the Dutch title and Morocco reach the World Cup quarterfinals.

By TSP Staff
Bayern Munich attacker Ismael Saibari
Ismael Saibari in the photograph accompanying the Bundesliga’s November 4, 2026 awards report. Photo: IMAGO/Eibner-Pressefoto/Jenni Maul. · Credit: IMAGO/Eibner-Pressefoto/Jenni Maul via Bundesliga

Bayern Munich attacker Ismael Saibari has been named among 10 nominees for the 2026 African Player of the Year award, the Bundesliga reported Wednesday.

The 25-year-old Morocco international recorded 19 goals and nine assists for PSV Eindhoven last season as the Dutch club won the Eredivisie. He then scored three goals in five appearances as Morocco reached the World Cup quarterfinals.

Saibari has scored three times for Bayern since joining in July. Former Bayern forward Sadio Mané, now at Al-Nassr, is also on the shortlist.

The winner will be selected by a panel comprising CAF technical committee members, African media professionals, players and coaches. Achraf Hakimi won last year’s award.