Morocco midfielder Karim Benarif opens up about life in India

Moroccan midfielder Karim Benarif has opened up about his new adventure with Kerala Blasters FC, revealing that his decision to move to India was motivated by his desire to experience a different football environment.

The former AS FAR player in an interview with Hesport, discussed life in the Indian league, and his previous spell in Iraq.

Speaking about how the move materialized, Benarif explained that discussions with his agent played a key role in the decision. According to the midfielder, the opportunity to explore a new football culture and lifestyle convinced him to take the leap to India.

“The idea came after consultations with an agent who encouraged me to try the Indian league and discover a different environment,” he said. “Thank God, it has been an important step for me, and I feel comfortable with the team.”

Benarif admitted that he initially had doubts about the standard and conditions in Indian football before making the switch. However, he revealed that his perception quickly changed after arriving at Kerala Blasters.

“Honestly, the atmosphere here is excellent, and the mentality is completely different,” he stated. “I had misconceptions before joining, but I found the opposite to be true. There is a high level of professionalism, and the league is developing rapidly both technically and organizationally.”

The Moroccan midfielder also compared the Indian Super League with the Moroccan league, praising the quality and intensity of football back home while emphasizing the importance of professionalism off the pitch.

“I believe the Moroccan league is more advanced in terms of level and pace,” Benarif explained. “But what Moroccan football still needs is a stronger professional mentality. If that aspect improves further, the league can reach an even greater level.”

Before moving to India, Benarif also enjoyed spells in Iraq with clubs such as Al-Najaf SC and Karbalaa FC. Reflecting on his experience there, the midfielder described Iraqi football as highly competitive and physically demanding.

“The Iraqi league is physically strong and has developed a lot in recent years,” he said. “There are many promising talents there, and only a few small details are needed for it to improve even more.”