Sunil Chhetri Comes Out of Retirement to Play for India

Sunil Chhetri, India’s all-time leading goal scorer and former captain, has decided to come out of retirement to represent the national team in the upcoming international window. The 40-year-old striker, who had bid farewell to international football last June, will suit up for India once again as they take on the Maldives in a friendly on 19th March before facing Bangladesh in a crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier on 25th March in Shillong.

Chhetri had initially called time on his international career after India’s goalless draw against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. However, despite stepping away from the national team, he has been in fine form for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League, where he has netted 12 goals this season—making him the league’s top Indian goal scorer. Across 23 appearances, including 17 starts, Chhetri has been directly involved in 14 goals, with two assists to his name. His performances have been instrumental in Bengaluru’s resurgence, guiding them back to the playoffs after a disappointing campaign last year. 

SUNIL CHHETRI IS BACK #SunilChhetri #IndianFootball #TheGOAT #ChhetriReturns pic.twitter.com/2kFpBPEolg

— ScoreWaves (@ScoreWaves) March 6, 2025

Speaking about his initial decision to retire, Chhetri had previously explained, “The retirement decision was not because of the physical aspect. I am still fit, running, chasing, defending. The hard work is not difficult. The reason is to do with the mental aspect.” 

With India drawn alongside Bangladesh, Hong Kong (China), and Singapore in their Asian Cup qualifying group, head coach Manolo Márquez believes Chhetri’s return could be a game-changer. “The qualification for the Asian Cup is very crucial for us. Given the importance of the tournament and the matches ahead, I discussed with Sunil Chhetri about making a comeback to strengthen the National Team. He agreed, and so we have included him in the squad,” Márquez revealed. 

The announcement was met with excitement, as Chhetri holds a legendary status in Indian football. With 94 goals in 150 international appearances, he’s India’s all-time top scorer. The Arjuna, Khel Ratna, and Padma Shri awardee sits fourth on the list of highest international goal scorers in men’s football, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Iran’s Ali Daei. With only six goals standing between Chhetri and the coveted 100-goal mark, Indian football fans are eager to see their captain reach this historic milestone. It would be a fitting achievement for a player who has carried the nation’s hopes for so long.