NEW DELHI, March 7: Legendary Indian footballer Sunil Chhetri has made a surprising return to international football at the age of 40, coming out of retirement following discussions with head coach Manolo Marquez. Marquez emphasized the significance of having the star player back on the field as India prepares for the upcoming Asian Cup qualification.
Chhetri, the fourth-highest international goal scorer of all time with 94 goals, had announced his retirement from the national team in June 2024. However, the iconic forward is now set to don the Indian jersey once again later this month as he has been included in the 26-member Indian senior men’s squad for the March FIFA International Window, which was announced by Marquez on Thursday.
The Blue Tigers will play a friendly match against the Maldives on March 19 in preparation for their opening match of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round, which will take place on March 25 against Bangladesh. Both matches are scheduled to be held in Shillong, according to a press release from the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
Commenting on Chhetri’s return, Marquez said, “The qualification for the Asian Cup is very crucial for us. Given the importance of the tournament and the upcoming matches, I spoke with Sunil Chhetri about making a comeback to strengthen the national team. He agreed, and as a result, we have included him in the squad.”
India’s squad for the March 2025 FIFA International Window includes:
Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurmeet Singh, Vishal Kaith.
Defenders: Ashish Rai, Boris Singh Thangjam, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Hmingthanmawia, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Roshan Singh Naorem, 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.
Chhetri’s return is seen as a major boost for the Indian national football team as they look to qualify for the Asian Cup. Fans and experts alike are eagerly awaiting his performances on the field in what promises to be a crucial phase for Indian football.
