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Why Morocco Star Ismael Saibari Chose the No.34 Jersey at Bayern Munich

Ismael Saibari has officially joined Bayern Munich, but the Moroccan international is drawing attention not only for his hefty transfer fee. The former PSV Eindhoven midfielder has opted for an unusual squad number for his first season at the Allianz Arena, and his choice carries a deeply personal meaning dedicated to a close friend.

A Heartfelt Tribute to Abdelhak Nouri

Saibari explained that his decision to wear the No.34 shirt is a tribute to his close friend Abdelhak Nouri. The former Ajax midfielder tragically collapsed during a pre-season friendly against Werder Bremen in 2017, suffering severe and permanent brain damage that ended his promising career.

Elaborating on the emotional significance of the number, Saibari said: “He survived but hasn’t been able to move on his own since then. I’m supporting him by wearing the 34, it was his last number.” This gesture mirrors the actions of several players across Europe who have worn the number 34 to honour Nouri’s legacy and keep his memory alive on the football pitch.

Continuing Bayern’s Legacy

While the No.34 shirt holds deep personal relevance for Saibari, it also carries its own history at Bayern Munich’s Sabener Strasse. Traditionally, the No.34 jersey has been worn by emerging young talents at the club, often serving as a launching pad before they progressed to more established first-team numbers.

Notable previous holders of the No.34 include Sandro Wagner (2007/08), Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (2012–16), Marco Friedl (2016–18), and most recently Deniz Ofli (2025/26). However, Saibari arrives not as a youth prospect but as a marquee signing expected to become a key figure in Vincent Kompany’s starting line-up, bringing renewed visibility to the number in the Bundesliga.

High Hopes for the €50 Million Signing

The Moroccan star arrives in Munich at the peak of his form, having been his nation’s top scorer at the 2026 World Cup. Reports indicate that Bayern paid a fixed fee of around €50 million for his services, making him one of the club’s most significant acquisitions in recent years.

Sporting director Christoph Freund praised Saibari’s qualities, saying: “Ismael Saibari has won the Dutch championship title with PSV Eindhoven three times consecutively, has Champions League experience, and has shown his quality at the World Cup on the biggest stage. He’s versatile, intense, and fearless in his play. He has the hunger we want at FC Bayern, and his goal-scoring ability and mentality will strengthen the team. Fans come to the stadium to watch players like him.”

Kompany’s Influence on His Decision

After his impressive performances in the Eredivisie, Saibari had multiple offers on the table, but the opportunity to work under Bayern’s current manager proved decisive. Following his medical tests, the forward opened up about his move and the appeal of joining the German champions.

“As a child, you dream of signing for a club like FC Bayern... It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world,” Saibari said. “FC Bayern compete for major titles like the Champions League every year, and I want to win as many trophies as possible here. The team’s playing style suits me, and I can express my football here. I’ll give my best every day to help the team. Coach Vincent Kompany played a major role in my decision – I’m really excited to work with him.”