When Kerala Blasters FC take the field against FC Goa on Thursday, one name is certain to take centre stage: Noah Sadaoui. Once the darling of the Gaurs' faithful, Sadaoui now dons the yellow of Kerala Blasters.

Sadaoui, who spent two exceptional seasons with FC Goa, was their talisman, a consistent performer, and a fan favourite. But now, he steps into this fixture as an opponent, determined to lead his current side to victory when Kerala Blasters FC welcome the Gaurs at Kochi's Jawaharlalal Nehru Stadium on Thursday.

Memories in Orange

During his two years with FC Goa, Sadaoui became synonymous with the club’s attacking strength. Signed ahead of the 2022-23 season, the Moroccan hit the ground running, scoring his first goal in his second league appearance against Chennaiyin FC. He also assisted the other goal in their 2-0 victory, setting the tone for a prolific debut season.

By the end of that campaign, Sadaoui had firmly established himself as the Gaurs’ most potent attacking weapon, finishing as their top scorer with nine goals and nine assists. In fact, he only failed to register a goal or assist in seven matches that season, a testament to his remarkable consistency.

Beyond the stats, his knack for stepping up in critical moments endeared him to the fans. His clinical finishing, creativity, and big-game mentality made him a central figure in FC Goa’s journey, even though the team narrowly missed out on the playoffs that campaign.

The following season saw a shift under new head coach Manolo Marquez. Sadaoui was often deployed as a false nine rather than in his usual left-wing role, and he thrived in this advanced position. With 11 goals — including a memorable hat-trick against Hyderabad FC — and five assists, he led the Gaurs back to the playoffs for the first time in three years.

However, all good things come to an end. In the summer of 2024, Sadaoui made the move to Kerala Blasters FC, departing as FC Goa’s second all-time leading goal scorer and leaving behind a legacy of brilliance.

A New Dawn in Yellow

Sadaoui’s arrival at Kerala Blasters FC generated significant excitement and questions: Would he replicate his success? Could he form a dynamic partnership with the Blasters’ talisman Adrian Luna?

After clinching the Golden Boot earlier in the Durand Cup with two hat-tricks, Sadaoui has answered all the questions surrounding his move. As the league season progresses, he has seamlessly adapted to his new role, delivering consistent performances that have made him a key player for Kerala Blasters heading into Matchweek 10.

In just seven league appearances, he has already contributed four goals and three assists. His absence due to injury mid-way in the season coincided with the team’s struggles, as they lost two games and narrowly avoided a third consecutive defeat upon his return. His importance to the team is already clear.

Sadaoui has now forged strong connections with the Blasters’ attacking line-up consisting of Jesus Jimenez and Luna, further enhancing their threat in the final third. His combination of flair, vision, and leadership has quickly turning him into a fan favourite in Kochi with their ardent supporters looking up to the Moroccan to deliver in every game.

As Thursday’s game approaches, the narrative is set. Will Sadaoui shine against his former club and propel Kerala Blasters to another vital win? Or will FC Goa find a way to neutralise their former star?

One thing is certain: the stage is set for a memorable encounter, and Noah Sadaoui will be at the heart of it.

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FC GoaKerala Blasters FC Noah Sadaoui