​Morocco’s head coach Mohamed Ouahbi offered a cautiously optimistic update on Bayern Munich forward Ismael Saibari as the team prepares for Thursday’s World Cup quarterfinal against France. Saibari remains sidelined with a hamstring problem, and while the news is not definitive, it appears he was close to being able to play, at least in the coaches’ view. Ouahbi stated that, for Saibari, this particular match comes too soon, but he expressed hope that the winger might still be fit for the remainder of the tournament. This update comes from Foot Mercato’s Hanif Ben Berkane, via the iMiaSanMia channel.
Earlier reports indicated Saibari did not participate in Morocco’s final training session on Wednesday, having already missed the preceding sessions as the squad geared up for the quarterfinals. The 25-year-old had begun the World Cup with a strong start, scoring in each of Morocco’s first three matches. However, his participation in the Round of 16 was cut short after only 21 minutes when he was forced off the field against Canada.
As Morocco eye a place in the semifinals, the team will be hoping Saibari can recover in time to contribute if needed. The reserve status of his injury continues to be monitored, with the coaching staff balancing the pressure of a decisive knockout game against the desire to preserve the player’s longer-term health and contribution to the team’s campaign.