Moroccan players have excelled in the ISL with skill, adaptability, and consistent performances. Stars like Azarayi, Noa, Boumous, and El Khayati highlight their impact. Their ability to adjust to Indian conditions and Morocco’s global football rise make them valuable assets for ISL clubs aiming for success and league titles.
Which Moroccan players have played in ISL?
Among the current Moroccan players, Alhaddin Azarayi of NorthEast United is perhaps the most prominent choice. The 31-year-old has scored 11 goals and provided 4 assists in 10 ISL matches this season. His performance has also put him at the top of the Golden Boot race.
Noa Sadawi is another Moroccan sensation who has made headlines in the ISL. After representing FC Goa for a few seasons, the Kerala Blasters star joined the Yellow Brigade during the summer transfer window. Since 2022, Noa has scored 23 goals and made 17 assists in 48 ISL matches.
Former Chennaiyin FC player Abdenaser El Khayati was another big name during the 2022-23 ISL season. The Dutch-Moroccan midfielder scored 9 goals and made 5 assists in 12 ISL matches for Marina Machans. Khayati was part of Mumbai City in the 2023-24 season, but his time was limited due to an injury.
Hugo Boumous and Ahmed Jahouh, both big names from Odisha FC, have been part of the league since 2017 and have won almost everything in Indian football. Although they are French nationals, Boumous, with Moroccan descent, won the Indian Super League Golden Ball in 2019-20.
Has NorthEast United found success with Moroccan players?
These three Moroccan players helped the club win the Durand Cup earlier this year. Currently, NorthEast United is placed fourth in the Indian Super League table and is considered one of the strongest contenders for the league title this season.
Why should ISL teams choose Moroccan players?
Players like Azarayi, Noa, Boumous, and El Khayati have proven how skilled and technically proficient Moroccan players can be. Climatically, these players have found it much easier to adapt to Indian conditions than European players.
Morocco has emerged as a football power in recent years. They are currently ranked 14th in the FIFA rankings and are aiming for further improvement. In the 2022 FIFA World Cup, they became the first African team to reach the semifinals.
With each passing season, the ISL is becoming stronger and more advanced. Therefore, clubs may consider scouting more Moroccan star players to bolster their squads and increase their chances of winning the league in upcoming seasons.
