Mohun Bagan Super Giant midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad admitted that the transition to Kolkata was challenging, but expressed satisfaction at how well he managed it, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career.

Samad had already made a name for himself in the Indian Super League (ISL) at Kerala Blasters FC, rising through the youth system to become a key figure in the senior squad. His flair and technical ability caught attention early, earning him the ISL Emerging Player of the Season award in the 2019-20 campaign. It was his impressive performances in the league that eventually opened the door to his debut with the Indian national team. Samad was a key part of the KBFC side that reached the final in the 2021-22 season.

In 2023, the 28-year-old made a move to Mohun Bagan Super Giant and went on to win the ISL League Shield in his first season. The following season, Samad won the Shield and Cup with the Mariners.

Reflecting on the transition, Sahal explained how the shift wasn’t just about the badge, but about stepping into a different mindset.

“Like every team, when I was playing there (KBFC), we were all fighting for the trophy. You know how close we were . But, when I came here (MBSG), there was a feeling that this is a champion team,” he said in an interview to Sportstar.

“The players around, the mentality, the management, it is all different here. I am happy about the step I took, which is a difficult step. But thankfully, I could handle it well,” he added.

Despite being part of an incredible campaign that saw MBSG win the double, Samad had to battle his own hurdles, most notably with injuries that disrupted his rhythm throughout the season. Limited to just 816 minutes on the pitch, Samad finished the campaign with just one assist, but his influence wasn’t confined to the statsheet.

The midfielder returned from injury during the crucial playoff stage and made a telling impact off the bench in the ISL final, showing glimpses of his quality when it mattered most.

“Injuries are always part of football, and I always see it that way,” he said.

“The physios, the team medicals, they all supported me through this tough time. It was a lesson for me to be patient and keep working harder, and to do the necessary things outside of football,” he added.