NorthEast United FC forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie credited his team and coaches after he won the Indian Super League (ISL) Golden Boot and the Golden Ball award, awarded to the league’s top scorer and best player respectively.

Ajaraie made history during the 2024-25 ISL season, achieving both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball awards — an accomplishment achieved by only two other players before in the league's history. Ajaraie's performance was extraordinary, scoring 23 goals and providing seven assists, his contributions were vital in leading the Highlanders to the playoffs, showcasing his status as a key player for the team.

From the beginning of the season, the Moroccan demonstrated his talent by scoring in his first eight matches, quickly setting records, including the fastest player to reach ten goals in ISL history.

Despite the team finishing fourth, his record-breaking tally of 23 goals and 30 total goal contributions solidified his place as the club's and the league's historic top scorer in a single season.

Ajaraie was overflowing with thankfulness as he spoke about the people who had helped him along his journey. He specifically acknowledged the crucial role that his support system played in his achievements.

"This season for me, it's an amazing season, I can't believe it.. I thank God and I want to thank my team, and all my staff. Without them, I couldn’t do this, and I can't win.. This day gives me more power to continue like this and also to help my team in the future.. This is special for me and this is a big honour for me, my family, my friends and my team because without a team I can't do anything," he said in an video posted by NorthEast United FC.

Ajaraie, when asked which goal he cherished the most from the entire season, immediately pointed to his strike against FC Goa. The match ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw at the Fatorda Stadium, with Ajaraie scoring a brilliant goal, dribbling past two defenders before calmly placing his shot into the far corner. He elaborated on his choice, explaining that it wasn't just any goal; it symbolised the culmination of persistent effort and dedicated practice.

"My favourite goal in the ISL was against FC Goa, I think it's difficult for me because I tried a lot before, I was trying too much to do this. And when I did, I worked hard for it, to do my best." He responded.

When questioned regarding what he considered to be his most cherished and memorable experience from the past season, the forward stated NEUFC’s away win against Chennaiyin FC.

"My best moment with the team is against Chennaiyin FC when we win 3-0 and we know we qualify directly for the playoff," he said as he concluded.

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Alaaeddine AjaraieNorthEast United FC2024-2025