Before Nordin's recent success at Montpellier, he had a lengthy spell at Saint-Étienne. The forward had played for Les Verts since 2015, progressing through their youth system, eventually making 148 appearances while netting 18 goals and providing ten assists.

While Saint-Étienne provided Nordin with his breakthrough in football, he eventually decided it was time to embark on a new adventure in his career. The Montpellier star recently spoke with us about what led to his decision to leave his boyhood club. 

"I've said it several times, but at Saint-Étienne, I experienced everything. I arrived there at 15 and stayed until I was 24, with only a one-year loan spell at Nancy. It's not just about football; I also got my high school diploma there, got my driver's license there... I really experienced everything."

"I felt like I was in a sort of cocoon because I was so comfortable, and maybe that's not ideal for pushing yourself. But in football, it's all about constant self-reflection. Seeing new things, meeting new people, it allowed me to become better."

Last season, Nordin had a breakout campaign, scoring a career-best nine goals and providing five assists for Montpellier. He credits his success to a range of factors, with a key highlight being the appointment of manager Michel Der Zakarian in February 2023, which played a crucial role in shaping his outstanding season.

"When the coach returned to the club, his words really struck a chord with me. He immediately told me that he believed in me. As a side note, this happened when I was recovering from a cheekbone operation and had to wear a mask. I thought it might be tough for me at first, that the coach might want to wait before putting me in the game, but no, he made it clear right away that he was counting on me."

"He wanted me to use my strengths, speed, and power and to work in front of the goal, always hungry to score, even during training. He doesn't let up on his forwards with that, and it's been incredibly beneficial for us."

This season, Nordin faced calf and hamstring injuries, yet they haven't hindered his ability to deliver impressive performances. Montpellier's standout player found the net five times in 13 league games, and even with the missed time due to injuries, he stands a chance to match last season's goal tally.

La Paillade find themselves embroiled in a tough fight to avoid relegation from Ligue 1, currently sitting in the playoff spot for relegation. If the team hopes to stay in France's top flight, they must rely on players like Nordin.