Indian Super League (ISL) side NorthEast United FC on Monday announced that star Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie has signed a contract extension. The 25-year-old's new deal comes after a sensational debut season that saw him smash records and guide the Highlanders to one of their best-ever campaigns.

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Signed ahead of the 2024–25 season from FAR Rabat, Ajaraie wasted no time in making an impact. Ajaraie played a crucial role in helping the club win the 2024 Durand Cup, their first major title since inception.

He then scored 23 goals and assisted seven more in 25 ISL appearances, contributing to 30 of NorthEast United FC’s 46 goals in the league phase. That not only made him the league’s top scorer but also the new record-holder for most goal contributions in a single ISL season..

Under Juan Pedro Benali’s management, the Highlanders finished the league phase as one of the most lethal attacking units, ending with the second-highest goal tally in the ISL. Ajaraie’s consistent brilliance was central to this success as he steered the Highlanders into the ISL playoffs after four years.

His performances saw him win both the ISL Golden Boot and Golden Ball awards, making him only the third player in league history to win both in the same season.

The Moroccan forward quickly became a fan favourite in Guwahati and across the league, not only for his goalscoring prowess but also for his creative play, technical and match-winning ability.