Ajaraie Aims for Legacy Beyond Goals at NorthEast United FC

Itanagar, India Aug 12, 2026 ALN: Alaaeddine Ajaraie has picked up where he left off at NorthEast United FC, scoring six goals in his first three matches since returning to the club. But the Moroccan striker says his biggest ambition is not to be remembered only for the goals he scores.

“When I leave India one day, I want people to remember me as a good person rather than a good footballer. That is more important to me,” Ajaraie told The Assam Tribune in an interview.

Ajaraie's first spell with the Highlanders established him as one of the most potent forwards in the Indian Super League (ISL). He scored 23 goals and provided seven assists in 25 matches, winning both the ISL Golden Boot and Golden Ball for the 2024-25 season. His performance not only showcased his skill but also highlighted his ability to perform under pressure, making him a key player for the franchise.

After spending last season on loan with Indonesian club Persija Jakarta, the 33-year-old returned to Guwahati this season and has immediately rediscovered his scoring touch. He scored a hat trick in NorthEast United's 6-0 win over Bodoland FC in their opening Durand Cup match and added two more goals in the 4-1 victory over Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC. In their last group match, he scored another goal to help the team win 3-1 against FC1 on Tuesday. These early performances have set a positive tone for the Highlanders as they aim to build momentum heading into the competitive ISL season.

Yet Ajaraie is reluctant to take individual credit for his goals. His humility and team-oriented mindset are evident in his statements and actions.

“Without my teammates, I cannot do anything. I want to continue like this, stay hungry and give my best in every match. Every player and every member of the staff has helped me, so I can only thank them,” he said. This acknowledgment of his teammates reflects a broader understanding of football as a collective sport, emphasizing that individual success is often a product of team effort.

For Ajaraie, personal statistics remain secondary to the team's success. He recognizes that while individual accolades can be gratifying, the ultimate goal of any player is to contribute to the team’s achievements.

“I want to keep improving, help myself grow and help the team. The most important thing for me is that the team wins. Whether I score or not, I just want to help the team in every way on the pitch. I believe we can have an even better season,” he said. This philosophy is particularly significant in a league like the ISL, where the competition is fierce, and teamwork can often be the differentiating factor between success and failure.

Despite his success last season, the striker believes there is still room for improvement. Interestingly, his answer has little to do with scoring more goals.

“First, I want to show respect to everyone, especially the referees and other players. I want to set a good example for the fans. I never want to be remembered as a bad person. I want to stay humble, keep a positive attitude and always bring good energy,” he said. This commitment to sportsmanship and respect underscores the values that Ajaraie holds dear, and it aligns with the growing emphasis on player conduct and community engagement in sports.

On the pitch, however, Ajaraie's approach is simple. For a striker, he believes, concentration is the most important quality.

“A striker must always stay focused. Sometimes you do not get many chances during a match, but when one opportunity comes, you have to be ready. Staying focused all the time is the most important thing,” he said. This mindset is crucial in high-stakes matches where moments can define the outcome, and a single lapse in concentration can lead to missed opportunities.

NorthEast United have made a strong start to their Durand Cup campaign, but Ajaraie is conscious that the tournament is only the beginning of a long season. The Durand Cup serves as a vital pre-season tournament, allowing teams to assess their rosters and build chemistry ahead of the ISL.

“This is only the pre-season, and we have played just three matches. But we have good players and the new foreign signings are also very good. I trust this team and believe we can do better than in previous years,” he said. His confidence in the squad reflects a broader optimism within the club, as they look to improve on past performances and make a significant impact in the upcoming league season.

Ajaraie also credited coach Juan Pedro Benali for helping him settle back into the team and get the best out of his qualities. Coaching plays a pivotal role in a player's development and performance, and Ajaraie's acknowledgment of Benali's influence highlights the importance of effective leadership in football.

“He understands my qualities and knows what I need and what the team needs. Before every match he gives me good advice to help both the team and myself,” he said. This relationship between player and coach is essential, especially for a player like Ajaraie, who has experienced various playing styles and strategies throughout his career. The adaptability of both the player and the coach can significantly impact the team's overall performance.

After winning individual honors in his previous ISL campaign, Ajaraie's ambition this time is straightforward. He wants to win trophies for the Highlanders.

“I just want to win as many trophies as I can for the Highlanders,” he said. This goal aligns with the aspirations of the club, which has been striving to establish itself as a competitive force in the ISL. Trophies not only enhance a team's reputation but also foster a winning culture that can attract talent and support.

NorthEast United are competing in Group F of the Durand Cup, with the tournament serving as an important part of their preparations for the upcoming ISL season. The Durand Cup, one of the oldest football tournaments in Asia, provides teams with the opportunity to refine their strategies, build team cohesion, and assess their squad depth. For Ajaraie and his teammates, the matches ahead will be crucial in setting the tone for the season to come.

As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Ajaraie to see if he can maintain his impressive form and help lead NorthEast United to success. His journey reflects not only the challenges and triumphs of a professional athlete but also the broader narrative of football in India, where the sport continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness. The combination of individual talent, teamwork, and a strong support system will be key factors in determining whether Ajaraie achieves his goals, both personally and for the Highlanders.