Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian footballer, has made a surprising return to the national team at the age of 40, reversing his decision to retire from international football last year. This move comes as India prepares for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers, with the team facing the Maldives in a friendly match on March 19 and Bangladesh on March 25 in the qualifiers.
Contents
Background
- Retirement and Return: Chhetri initially retired from international football in June 2024 after a World Cup qualifying match against Kuwait. However, he has continued to play for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League (ISL), maintaining his form with 12 goals in the 2024-25 season.
- Reason for Return: The decision to bring Chhetri back was made by head coach Manolo Marquez, who emphasized the importance of the Asian Cup qualification. Chhetri’s inclusion is seen as crucial to bolstering the team’s chances in the tournament.
- Impact on Team: Chhetri’s return highlights India’s reliance on experienced players due to a lack of consistent goal-scoring alternatives. Despite his age, Chhetri remains a vital figure in Indian football, known for his leadership and scoring prowess.
Upcoming Matches
- Friendly vs Maldives: March 19
- Asian Cup Qualifier vs Bangladesh: March 25
Chhetri’s decision to come out of retirement highlights his commitment to Indian football and his desire to contribute to the team’s success in major tournaments. His return is seen as a significant boost to the team’s morale and chances in the Asian Cup qualifiers.
