Sunil Chhetri Gears Up for a Comeback in India’s Jersey for Upcoming FIFA Friendlies
Sunil Chhetri is all set to don the Indian jersey once again, coming out of international retirement to support the national team in the upcoming FIFA friendly matches this month. His unexpected comeback has given India’s chances of qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 new life.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced on Thursday that Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has decided to come out of retirement to help the national team in this month’s FIFA friendlies. Less than a year after saying goodbye to international football, the 40-year-old, who captained India for more than ten years, is making a comeback.
Chhetri began his international career in 2005 and retired as India’s all-time top goal scorer and most-capped player. With 94 international goals, he stands as the fourth-highest goal scorer in men’s international football, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei. His retirement after India’s FIFA World Cup Qualifier match against Kuwait in Kolkata on June 6, 2024, left a significant void in the team.
FIFA Paid Tribute to Chhetri’s Glorious Career
Recognizing his remarkable contributions, FIFA paid tribute to Chhetri by releasing a three-part documentary titled “Captain Fantastic” in 2022, chronicling his journey. The episodes were named Kick-Off, Mid-Game, and Extra Time, representing different phases of his career.
Coach Manolo Márquez Welcomes Chhetri’s Return
Head coach Manolo Márquez has confirmed Chhetri’s inclusion in the 26-member squad for the March FIFA international window, ahead of crucial matches. India is set to play a friendly against the Maldives on March 19, followed by the opening match of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers final round against Bangladesh on March 25.
Expressing his optimism about Chhetri’s return, Márquez said:
Securing a spot in the Asian Cup holds immense significance for our team. Given the significance of the tournament and upcoming matches, I spoke with Sunil Chhetri about rejoining the national team to strengthen our squad. He agreed, and that’s why we have included him in the team.”
Chhetri Continues His Club Form
Even after retiring from international football, Chhetri has been in great form at the club level. He has continued playing for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League (ISL), where he has scored 12 goals in 23 matches this season, making him the highest-scoring Indian player in the league.
India’s senior men’s team will play their FIFA international window matches at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. Placed in a qualifying group with Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and Singapore, the team hopes to improve upon their disappointing performance in the last AFC Asian Cup, where they failed to progress beyond the group stage.
India’s Finalized 26-Player Roster for the March 2025 FIFA International Fixtures
Goalkeepers:
Amrinder Singh
Gurmeet Singh
Vishal Kaith
Defenders:
Ashish Rai
Boris Singh Thangjam
Chinglensana Singh Konsham
Hmingthangmawia
Mehtab Singh
Rahul Bheke
Roshan Singh
Sandesh Jhingan
Subhasish Bose
Midfielders:
Ashique Kuruniyan
Ayush Dev Chhetri
Brandon Fernandes
Brison Fernandes
Jeakson Singh Thounaojam
Lalengmawia
Liston Colaco
Mahesh Singh Naorem
Suresh Singh Wangjam
Forwards:
Sunil Chhetri
Farukh Choudhary
Irfan Yadwad
Lallianzuala Chhangte
Manvir Singh
Sunil Chhetri: Biography, Career, Records & Achievements
Sunil Chhetri is India’s greatest footballer and the all-time top goal scorer for the national team. Born on August 3, 1984, Chhetri has played a crucial role in Indian football, leading the team for over a decade. With 94 international goals, he ranks as the fourth-highest goal scorer in men’s international football, just behind Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei.
Sunil Chhetri’s Career Highlights
- International Debut: 2005 against Pakistan
- Total International Goals: 94+
- Most Capped Indian Player
- Club Career: Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan, Sporting CP B
- Trophies Won: Multiple SAFF Championships, Intercontinental Cup
Why is Sunil Chhetri Famous?
Chhetri’s leadership and goal-scoring ability have made him a legend in Indian football. He has played a pivotal role in India’s AFC Asian Cup campaigns and FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
Sunil Chhetri’s Records & Achievements
- Fourth Highest International Goal Scorer (Among active players)
- AIFF Player of the Year (Multiple times)
- Most Goals for Bengaluru FC in ISL
- Padma Shri Awardee (India’s fourth-highest civilian honor)