Heading into the 11th edition of the Indian Super League (ISL), Kerala Blasters have bolstered their attack by signing Moroccan winger Noah Sadaoui, one of the standout performers for FC Goa in Season 10.
Blasters, who are gearing up for the new season with a revamped squad and a new coach at the helm, are currently training in Thailand.
Noah, who is thrilled to embark on this new journey under Swedish manager Mikael Stahre, said he took two factors into consideration before making a decision when Blasters approached him with an offer at the end of ISL Season 10.
"When I decided to leave FC Goa, I never had a single doubt in my mind about my future in the ISL. The fan base of Blasters is simply incredible. It is amazing to see the vibrant atmosphere created by the KBFC fans. Any player would love to play in front of such a passionate crowd," Noah said.
The 30-year-old, who has 54 appearances in the ISL, with a mouth-watering tally of 29 goals and 16 assists to his name over the last two seasons, is also a big fan of Blasters' counter-attacking style of play. "Blasters play an exciting counter-attacking brand of football. This strategy suits my playing style because I'm somebody who loves to attack the opposition with both speed and intensity," Noah reasoned.
"Basically, I'm a left-winger and it is my favourite position. However, I possess the ability to play in multiple positions and I'm equally strong with both feet." Noah, who idolises Cristiano Ronaldo, said.
Although the Portugal legend is his favourite footballer, Noah's role model is none other than his father. "My father is my biggest role model. I grew up playing football on the streets of Casablanca. Being born and brought up in a city where football culture is so striking, it was inevitable that I would get a taste of the sport from childhood. It is the streets of Casablanca that shaped me into the footballer I'm today," he said.
Noah has four national team appearances since his debut in 2021. He started in the semifinals and the finals of the 2021 African Nations Championship, playing a pivotal role in Morocco's triumphant campaign.
"I have played against Kerala Blasters in Kochi. Seeing thousands of vocal and boisterous fans on the stands backing their team was a phenomenal experience. I cannot wait to don the yellow jersey and fulfill their expectations. I will do everything to repay their unconditional love," Noah added.
