“SUNIL CHHETRI IS BACK”; How Manolo Marquez influenced Sunil Chhetri to reverse retirement decision
Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri is set to return to international duty, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed. The veteran forward, who had retired from the national team last June after a World Cup qualifier against Kuwait, will rejoin the squad ahead of India’s March fixtures against the Maldives on the 19th and Bangladesh on the 25th, both scheduled in Shillong.
The AIFF’s announcement, titled “SUNIL CHHETRI IS BACK,” celebrated him as the team’s captain, leader, and legend. In a press release dated March 6, head coach Manolo Márquez explained that Chhetri’s comeback was a key strategic move. “Qualifying for the Asian Cup is very crucial for us,” Márquez noted. “Given the importance of the upcoming matches, I discussed a return with Sunil, and he agreed to help strengthen our side.” This decision comes as India prepares to compete in the FIFA International Window.
𝐒𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐋 𝐂𝐇𝐇𝐄𝐓𝐑𝐈 𝐈𝐒 𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐊.
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) March 6, 2025
The captain, leader, legend will return to the Indian national team for the FIFA International Window in March.#IndianFootballpic.twitter.com/vzSQo0Ctez
Chhetri’s illustrious career began in 2005 and saw him score 94 goals in 151 international appearances a record that places him behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei globally. Reflecting on his nearly two-decade-long journey, he once recalled the blend of duty, pressure, and joy that marked his time representing India.
Despite hanging up his international boots, Chhetri has continued to perform for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League. His return at 40 not only highlights his enduring passion for the sport but also underscores the ongoing challenge of finding consistent goal-scoring talent in Indian football.
Looking ahead, the match against Bangladesh will serve as an international friendly and mark the opening of India’s AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaign, setting the stage for an exciting period in the nation’s football calendar.