When Sunil Chhetri unretires!

When Sunil Chhetri walked off Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium in tears after what was declared his final international match, it felt like the end of an era. His illustrious 19-year career had seemingly reached its conclusion. A return was never expected. Yet, 273 days later, he is back. A comeback that sparks both celebration and concern.

On one hand, his return is a moment of joy for Indian football fans. The talismanic striker, who has been the face of the national team for nearly two decades, is once again leading the charge. On the other hand, his recall underscores a troubling reality. India has yet to produce a young forward capable of stepping into his shoes.

Sunil Chhetri, the football legend!

Sunil Chhetri is the fourth-highest goalscorer in men’s international football. Behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei continued to ply his trade for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League during his time away from the national squad. His legacy is deeply rooted in Indian football history. He played a pivotal role in the country’s victories in the Nehru Cup (2007, 2009, 2012) and the SAFF Championship (2011, 2015, 2021). Most notably, his contribution to India’s 2008 AFC Challenge Cup triumph secured the nation’s first AFC Asian Cup appearance in 27 years.

Since making his international debut in 2005, Chhetri has been rewriting records. His first goal came against Pakistan. In the 2011 SAFF Championship, he surpassed Indian legend I.M. Vijayan’s record of six goals in a single edition by netting seven. That spectacular achievement led India to victory and cemented his place as the national team’s highest scorer. Across club and country, he boasts a staggering 252 goals in 515 appearances, averaging nearly a goal every two games. His impact has been so profound all over the football world. FIFA honored him in 2022 with the documentary Captain Fantastic, chronicling his journey and achievements.

However, despite Chhetri’s heroics, the Indian team has struggled in recent times. Under former head coach Igor Stimac, they endured a dismal run. Failing to register a single international victory. In 11 matches, India suffered six defeats, drew five, scored just four goals, and conceded 15. This sharp decline was a stark contrast to the previous year when the team lifted three trophies. Indian team broke into the top 100 of the FIFA rankings for the first time since 2017. The lackluster performances under Stimac tested the patience of even the most loyal supporters, who had once believed in the squad’s potential.

Why the hero is back?

Now, the responsibility of steadying the ship falls on Manolo Marquez, Stimac’s successor. And for that, he has turned to none other than Chhetri. At 40, the veteran forward has been persuaded to return. It is hoped that his leadership and experience can guide India past a tricky opening clash in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 final-round qualifiers against Bangladesh later this month.

Marquez revealed that he spoke with the legendary striker about the significance of the qualifiers. After their discussion, Sunil Chhetri agreed to make himself available for selection. Finally, one more time, for the team and the nation.