Sunil Chhetri ends retirement, returns to Indian national team

By NKTV Digital Last updated Mar 7, 2025

DOHA, QATAR - JANUARY 13: Sunil Chhetri of India looks on prior to the AFC Asian Cup Group B match between Australia and India at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on January 13, 2024 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Etsuo Hara/Getty Images)

Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri has made a remarkable decision to come out of retirement, confirming his return to the national team for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced on Thursday that Chhetri will feature in the third round of qualifiers against Bangladesh on March 25, as part of the March FIFA international window.

Coach Manolo Marquez has included Chhetri in his squad of 26 players for the important qualifiers, marking a significant boost for the Indian team. The seasoned striker, who has long been the backbone of Indian football, will aim to lead the team to success in the qualifiers after their early exit in the previous edition of the Asian Cup.

The two crucial matches will be held at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium during the international window, with India competing alongside Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and Singapore in the group stage for a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup.