Indian Super League Loses Top Scorer Alaaeddine Ajaraie to Indonesian Club
The Indian Super League faces a significant setback. Its star Moroccan forward, Alaaeddine Ajaraie, has moved to Persija Jakarta in Indonesia. This transfer marks a major loss for Indian football.
Ajaraie's Record-Breaking Season and Loan Move
Alaaeddine Ajaraie played for NorthEast United last season. He delivered an outstanding performance. The forward scored 23 goals and provided seven assists in just 25 appearances. These numbers set a new record in the ISL. No player had achieved such statistics before.
His efforts earned him both the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball awards. Ajaraie's all-round show impressed fans and critics alike.
Now, he joins Persija Jakarta on a loan deal. NorthEast United FC and the Indonesian club reached an agreement on Friday. The loan will last until the end of the 2025–26 season.
Sources indicate NorthEast United extended Ajaraie's contract before finalizing the loan. Persija Jakarta holds a strong reputation. They have won the Indonesian top division eleven times. Currently, they stand third in the league.
Growing Trend of Foreign Players Leaving ISL
Ajaraie represents the latest foreign footballer to depart Indian football this season. Many players seek new challenges abroad. This trend raises concerns for the ISL.
Kerala Blasters have already lost four of their six foreign players. FC Goa now retains only two foreigners, Pol Moreno and Dejan Drazic. They began with six in the AFC Champions League Two games.
Other clubs like Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City, and East Bengal also face similar issues. NorthEast United itself loses Ajaraie. Players express frustration over the delayed start of the ISL season.
The top-tier league now expects to kick off on February 14. This delay contributes to the exodus.
List of Prominent Foreign Exits This Season
Several high-profile foreigners have left India despite having active contracts. Their departures impact team dynamics and league quality.
- Edgar Mendez (Bengaluru FC)
- Javier Siverio, Borja Herrera, Iker Guarrotxena, David Timor (all from FC Goa)
- Jon Toral, Tiri (Mumbai City)
- Juan Rodriguez, Adrian Luna, Noah Sadaoui, Tiago Alves (all from Kerala Blasters)
- Hiroshi Ibusuki, Hamid Ahadad (East Bengal)
- Chema Nunez, Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NorthEast United)
This list underscores the challenge for ISL clubs. They must now rebuild squads and adapt to these changes. The league's appeal to international talent faces a test.
