NorthEast United FC’s Alaaeddine Ajaraie is proving to be a standout performer in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) season. The Moroccan forward has made life difficult for every opponent they’ve faced so far. With 11 goals and 4 assists in just 9 games for the Highlanders, Ajaraie has emerged as a major threat. As Juan Pedro Benali’s side prepare to take on East Bengal FC in a high-voltage clash on Friday, all eyes are on the Moroccan star. Adding to the significance of the match, the Highlanders return to the very venue where they clinched their first-ever national silverware, the prestigious Durand Cup, just a few months ago.
Ajaraie, known for staying grounded, typically avoids the media spotlight. He rarely gives interviews, preferring instead to let his boots do the talking on the pitch. His enigmatic goal celebrations have also caught the attention of football enthusiasts. Returning to his favourite venue to face the red-and-gold brigade, still seeking their first ISL win, Ajaraie is a key figure in this much-anticipated encounter.
At RevSportz, we had the opportunity to chat candidly with the Moroccan forward about his unique celebration style, the secret behind his goal-scoring prowess, and his thoughts on the East Bengal side. Let’s dive into how the conversation unfolded.
You’ve had an incredible season so far with 11 goals and 4 assists in 9 games. What has been the key to your outstanding form?
Ajaraie: I am happy that I have managed to help the team with 11 goals. It’s a long season and I am fully focused on my job of helping the team. Without their help, I wouldn’t be able to score so many goals.
Next game against East Bengal, who are yet to secure a win this season. How are you preparing for the challenge they pose, especially with their passionate fans at the Salt Lake Stadium?
Ajaraie: We play like any other game and focus on winning. East Bengal is a big historic club with great fans. We love to play in full stadiums with fans. We know it’s a big game and hope it will be a good one.
You scored a spectacular goal in the Durand Cup final at this very venue, helping your team win. Does returning to Kolkata bring back those memories, and does it give you extra motivation?
Ajaraie: I like playing in Kolkata, but like I said, we are playing East Bengal and the Durand Cup is past. The venue will always be special, but we cannot live in the past and we must focus on the game.
Last season, NorthEast United conceded 5 goals to East Bengal at this same venue. Is your coach preparing the team for a strong redemption this time?
Ajaraie: It was last year. This year is different. Rather, every game is different. Nobody is thinking about the last season. We are focussed on the game and we prepare for the game just like we prepare for any other game.
Can you tell us the story behind your unique celebration after every goal?
Alaaeddine: I don’t watch anime too much but I love this particular one. I liked the character of Luffy and that’s how I thought of doing this celebration. I started it only this season because that is how I want people to remember me and when I see our Young Highlanders celebrate like me, it gives me happiness.
What attracted you to join NorthEast United?
Alaaeddine: I spoke to Hamza (Hamza Regragui) and Ali (Mohammed Ali Bemammer) before I came here. They told me about how good a club NorthEast United FC is… The owner, the CEO, the head coach and of course, the entire staff, who make everything possible. It helped me make my decision to join the NorthEast United FC.
You’ve already achieved so much this season. What are your personal and team goals for the rest of the campaign?
Alaaeddine: The first step would be to qualify for the playoffs and then we take it from there, but for us, it’s always about one game at a time.
Are there any East Bengal players you see as major threats in the upcoming game?
Alaaeddine: East Bengal is a very good side with good players and we always respect our opposition. We don’t just focus on one particular individual but we always focus on the team.
Madih Talal has been a standout player for East Bengal this season. With both French and Moroccan citizenship, have your paths ever crossed before?
Alaaeddine: Madih Talal is a big player and I really like him. Our paths haven’t crossed but we will meet for the first time when we play against East Bengal and can’t wait to face him.
Parthib Gogoi is emerging as a prodigious striker for the team. Do you share your experiences with him, and does he come to you to learn new things?
Alaaeddine: Of course, he’s like my young brother and we share a good bond on the field and we always learn from each other.