Noah Sadaoui Exclusive: Kerala Blasters' Moroccan Maestro Eyes Glory in Super Cup, clears Rumours for Manjappada

Noah Sadaoui has never been one to shy away from a challenge. From Morocco to Major League Soccer, from FC Goa to Kerala Blasters, the versatile forward's journey has been marked by flair, resilience, and a burning desire to evolve.

In what has been a turbulent season for Kerala Blasters, Sadaoui has stood out as a figure of consistency and determination as a performer and as a leader.

Noah's brilliance was on full display as he netted an absolute screamer in the Kalinga Super Cup match against East Bengal recently. His movement, passing, shooting - all the aspects of the game were right on money. And less than 24 hours after the heroics, Noah sat with MyKhel, with a beaming smile and opened up on a plethora of things.

A Season of Challenges and Growth

Reflecting on his debut season with Kerala Blasters, Sadaoui admitted it hasn't been an easy ride. "I always feel I can do better, I had setbacks, which was injuries before I never really had, and then just coming back and trying to catch rhythm and obviously with the team not doing so well this season, it's a lot. But as I said, I'm very positive and I always look forward to the next day," he said candidly.

Despite injuries and a difficult campaign for the club, the Moroccan international has continued to be one of the brighter sparks in the squad. His goal against East Bengal in the Kalinga Super Cup was a reminder of the quality he brings.

Still, for Sadaoui, the campaign has been a lesson in patience and adaptation. "There's always ups and downs, and it's part of football. You have to accept it and just keep working hard."

Defensive Unity Under New Professor

The arrival of new head coach David Català has brought about a clear shift in Kerala's structure. For Sadaoui, the transformation is visible in their collective defensive approach.

"Our biggest problem was not defending as a team. There was too much space, and teams punished us. But with the new coach, we've started focusing on defending compactly. If we continue like this, we'll have a word to say in this competition."

That new defensive discipline paid dividends in their recent victory against East Bengal, which has now set up a high-stakes clash against ISL champions Mohun Bagan.

The Mariners Test

Mohun Bagan, the next opponent in the Kalinga Super Cup, is a formidable unit. But Sadaoui isn't overawed.

"They've won two trophies, they have confidence. But we are a big club too. We take the positives from our last game and learn from our mistakes. Now it's about preparing for them."

More Than Just a Forward

Though known for his goal-scoring abilities, Sadaoui sees his role as much more layered. He's a mentor to young talents and a flexible presence on the pitch.

"This season, I played on the right, though I usually prefer the left. I've played as a striker, second striker, even behind the forward. I adjust. And I talk a lot with our youngsters, guys like Amen and Kuru. I tell them talent is not enough-it's hard work that takes you forward."

Fans, Frustration, and Unwavering Support

A season which has been ravaged with fan discontentment, KBFC's star striker is empathetic with the fans. He openly admits the reason for the frustration and the aim is only one, which is to fulfill the fans wishes and win tournaments.

"I understand their frustration. They sacrifice a lot to support us. And when results don't come, the mood drops. But we don't go into matches wanting to lose. We feel it too. But I believe with the right structure and compactness, we can be successful."

His message to the Manjappadas? "Stay with us, through good and bad. It's not easy to win trophies overnight. Every team wants it. But we are trying."

The Foreign Scrutiny in Indian Football

Noah also expects a much more scrutiny in Indian football for himself. In Morocco, the foreigner cap is non-existent, and due to that, Indian football has made things a far more difficult for players such as Noah, who always are much more discussed and looked upon, and dissected by opponents compared to Indian players.

"A lot of people think it's easy, but it's not because, you know, here they pay attention to you more as a foreigner. You have to put more effort here to be able to provide good things for the team."

I'm Going to be Here: Sadaoui squashes Transfer Rumours

And as far as the swirling transfer rumors go, Sadaoui looks clear. He wanted to rest the rumours and confirm that he is staying with the Manjappada next season as well.

"You guys love rumours, but listen, I have a contract here for two years. I don't have a problem with anybody. I love the club and I'm willing to stay here and I will be here unless there's something different, but I'm going to be here. And the only thing I'm looking forward to is finishing off the season on a great note, take some rest and come back fresh and to work on to try not to get injured for next season. And that's what I can look forward to."

Eyes on the Super Cup and Beyond

Despite a strong start to the Kalinga Super Cup, the Moroccan forward is keeping his feet firmly on the ground. In a season which has been marred by different issues, the travelling Manjappada fans will be hoping for a joyous conclusion. And their talisman from Northern Africa is determined for the same.

"We can't get carried away. Every match is different. If we perform, we win. If we don't, we're out. Simple. Let's take it one game at a time and give the fans something to smile about. It would be amazing to win the cup and make everyone happy, and for us to be happy. But I could only think about the next game, and I hope my teammates are doing the same thing."

The 31-year-old from Casablanca will play a key part as the Kerala Blasters continue to vie for glory in the Kalinga Super Cup. It has been a tough journey for Kerala Blasters this season, but Noah remains determined to turn the tables, and probably the Kaloor Stadium will dance to the tunes of 'Uyarnu Vaa, Uyarnu Vaa, Ulakine Nee Jayichu Vaa' soon.