My dream is to win AFC Cup- Sahal Abdul Samad after signing for Mohun Bagan

Sahal Abdul Samad wants to win the ISL and AFC Cup at Mohun Bagan.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant have officially announced the signing of Sahal Abdul Samad from Kerala Blasters. The 26-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-year contract with the Mariners, which will see his deal run up until 2028.

In a player+cash deal agreed between the two Indian Super League (ISL) giants, Pritam Kotal has left Mohun Bagan to join Kerala. Sahal is also claimed to be earning huge wages of ₹2.5 crores per year, thanks to this deal.

What Sahal said about Mohun Bagan move

After his move, Sahal gave an interview to Mohun Bagan SG media. He said: “I’m feeling proud just at the thought that I’ll be donning the prestigious Mohun Bagan jersey. I’ve heard all my life that you start operating at a different level while wearing the Green and Maroon colours. Moreover, the Kolkata Derby is often regarded in the same level as the El Clasico."

He also spoke about his thoughts on playing in the Kolkata Derby against East Bengal, explaining: “I’m addicted to watching football matches. Whenever I get some time, I try to watch matches from every prominent league in the world. I’ve seen on the TV about how the atmosphere can turn into during the Kolkata derby.

“I’ve never seen a derby in the gallery, neither have I played in one. But the fact that I can now play in that match for Mohun Bagan makes me feel great. The stadium will be packed with fans cheering for our team. I never enter the pitch thinking of anything but a win. Win, win, win – this is my mentality. I’ll keep that in tact during the derby too!”

Sahal’s objectives at new club

Sahal aspires to win the ISL trophy with Mohun Bagan, as he stated: “I got married a few days ago. My wife is also a badminton player. I feel like me signing for Mohun Bagan is the best wedding gift ever. They won the ISL title last season. We have two World Cup players, and those who have played the Europa League and I’ll play with them. We have five members of the Indian national team in the squad too, who helped India win three cups. But I’ve never won the ISL title in my career. That’s why I signed for Mohun Bagan, to win this trophy. I believe Mohun Bagan will only get better and that I’ll realize my dream of winning the ISL trophy.”

He also spoke about his dreams of playing in the AFC Cup, adding: “When Mohun Bagan’s management contacted me, they told me their plans of becoming India’s best team and competing with the best in Asia. I want to align myself with this mentality of the club. I’ve played many international games for India, but never in the AFC Cup. But I’ll get that chance at the start of the upcoming season. I need to make the most of that opportunity. The matches might be tough, but my dream is to help the club become AFC Cup champions.”

Finally, Sahal stated that he spoke to Igor Stimac before the move and got the India manager’s blessing. He explained: “I actually spoke with Igor Stimac before signing with Mohun Bagan. He gave me his blessings for this move. He motivated me to only get better and help the club succeed. Many players from Kerala, including IM Vijayan and Jo Paul Ancheri have played in Kolkata and succeeded before me.

"I’m planning to talk to them before heading to Kolkata, to seek their blessing and advice. They’re icons of Indian football. I’ll try to match their feats. I hope to receive a lot of love from the Mohun Bagan fanbase too. I’ll play to my best ability for the fans and the club’s success,” the midfielder finished off with.

Sahal leaves Kerala Blasters after spending the last five years with them. He made 97 appearances for Kerala, scoring 10 goals and providing nine assists across all competitions.