Bayern dealt major injury blow as Ismael Saibari faces four months out

Both players were forced off during Bayern's 2-2 Klassiker draw against Borussia Dortmund, with Saibari leaving the field in the 29th minute after colliding with goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. Gnabry was also substituted shortly afterwards.

Bayern confirmed the extent of their injuries the following day. Saibari suffered a tear to the syndesmosis ligament in his right ankle and has already undergone successful surgery.

Gnabry sustained a muscle injury in his left thigh and faces a shorter spell on the sidelines.

Bayern technical director Max Eberl provided an update on Monday, confirming that Saibari faces several months out despite the midfielder appearing in good spirits.

"He was already sitting with us at lunch today. I was completely surprised and asked him whether it would be two or three weeks. He laughed a little and said: 'Two and a half,'" Eberl said.

"That probably won't be the case. We're expecting him to be out for three to four months with the syndesmosis ligament tear."

Gnabry is expected to return sooner, but Bayern will have to manage without the Germany international until around Christmas.

The injuries come at an important stage of the season, with Bayern travelling to Spain on Tuesday to face Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.

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