𝐒𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐋 𝐂𝐇𝐇𝐄𝐓𝐑𝐈(Credit:X/@IndianFootball)
Indian football fans have been given a reason to celebrate as Sunil Chhetri, the iconic striker and long-time captain of the national team, is set to make a surprising return to international football. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed on Thursday that Chhetri will once again don the national jersey during the upcoming FIFA International Window in March.
This unexpected decision marks a dramatic twist in the veteran forward’s career, as he had announced his retirement from international football last year. His farewell match against Kuwait on June 6, 2023, in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, was seen as the closing chapter of a glorious career. However, destiny had other plans.
A Comeback to Remember
With India gearing up for two crucial matches—a friendly against Maldives on March 19 and an AFC Asian Cup third-round fixture against Bangladesh on March 25—the presence of Chhetri adds an electrifying dimension to the squad. Both matches will take place at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where fans will get to witness the return of one of India’s greatest footballers.
“Sunil Chhetri is back! The captain, leader, legend will return to the Indian national team for the FIFA International Window in March,” AIFF confirmed via social media, sending waves of excitement across the footballing community.
A Storied Legacy: Chhetri’s Incredible Journey
Chhetri’s return is a moment of pride and nostalgia for Indian football, considering the unparalleled legacy he has built. The striker, who made his international debut in 2005 against Pakistan in Quetta, quickly rose to become the backbone of Indian football. His leadership and goal-scoring prowess have earned him comparisons with global greats.
Currently, Chhetri stands fourth on the all-time international goal-scorers list, just behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. With 94 goals in 150 appearances, he is India’s all-time leading scorer, a testament to his consistency and dedication.
His contributions have shaped the success of Indian football over the last two decades. Under his captaincy, India clinched multiple prestigious titles, including:
- 2007, 2009, and 2012 Nehru Cup
- 2011, 2015, 2021, and 2023 SAFF Championship
- 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, securing India’s first AFC Asian Cup qualification in 27 years
Beyond trophies, Chhetri has been the face of Indian football, inspiring generations of young players. His impact extends beyond the pitch, as his passionate appeals to fans to support Indian football have sparked a cultural shift in how the sport is perceived in the country.
A Decorated Career: India’s Footballing Icon
Chhetri’s contributions to Indian football have been widely recognized at the national level. His list of accolades includes:
- Arjuna Award (2011) – India’s prestigious sports honor
- Padma Shri (2019) – The fourth-highest civilian award
- Khel Ratna Award (2021) – Becoming the first Indian footballer to receive the country’s highest sporting honor
His return to the national squad reignites excitement among fans and teammates alike. For Indian football, this is not just about one more game or one last tournament—it is about witnessing a legend add another chapter to his remarkable journey.
What Chhetri’s Return Means for Indian Football
Chhetri’s comeback brings multiple advantages for the team:
- Experience & Leadership: His presence will be invaluable, especially for younger players looking to learn from a legend.
- Goal-Scoring Threat: Despite his age, Chhetri remains India’s most reliable finisher, capable of changing games single-handedly.
- Mental Boost for the Squad: His return will inject renewed confidence into the team as they prepare for crucial fixtures.
- Increased Fan Engagement: Chhetri’s return is bound to boost Indian football’s visibility, encouraging more support for the sport.
With the Shillong crowd set to witness history in March, all eyes will be on Chhetri as he steps onto the field once again, proving that legends never truly say goodbye. Indian football’s Captain. Leader. Legend. is back—perhaps for one last dance.
