Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has chosen to return from international retirement to aid the national team in the forthcoming FIFA International Window, beginning in March 2025. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced this on Thursday.
India’s record leading goal scorer Chhetri will return in the third round of AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Bangladesh on March 25. The experienced forward has been reinstated to the 26-member list for the important international games by head coach Manolo Marquez.
“The captain, leader, legend will return to the Indian national team for the FIFA International Window in March,” the AIFF posted on X.
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The captain, leader, legend will return to the Indian national team for the FIFA International Window in March.#IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/vzSQo0Ctez
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) March 6, 2025
Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will host India’s two matches during this window. India is placed in a qualifying group alongside Bangladesh, Hong Kong (China), and Singapore. The team aims to overcome its disappointing run in the previous AFC Asian Cup, where it failed to progress past the group stage.
Chhetri’s International Comeback
Chhetri had previously declared his international retirement from football in June 2024 after India drew with Kuwait in a goalless match during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. His return is, however, regarded as a significant fillip for Indian football due to his experience and on-field leadership.
At 40, Chhetri is still a force to be reckoned with in football. He trails only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei in the all-time top international goal scorers in men’s football. Even after retiring from international duty, he played for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League, demonstrating his commitment to the game.
Legacy of Sunil Chhetri Indian Football
Chhetri has been a pillar of strength for Indian football for almost twenty years. He has led India to numerous successes with his captaincy and shooting skills, such as:
Nehru Cup Championships (2007, 2009, 2012)
SAFF Championship Wins (2011, 2015, 2021)
AFC Challenge Cup Victory (2008) – winning India an AFC Asian Cup spot in 27 years.
His journey abroad started in 2005 with his first goal against Pakistan. A turning point was created in the 2011 SAFF Championship when he broke I.M. Vijayan’s record of most goals scored in an edition when he scored seven to bring India the championship.
On club and country, Chhetri has scored a staggering 252 goals in 515 games, with an impressive goal-per-game ratio. All his accomplishments have fetched him international acclaim, and FIFA awarded him a documentary, “Captain Fantastic,” in 2022.
India’s Road Ahead
With Chhetri on the field now, India’s team receives a huge shot in the arm ahead of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualification. His experience and guidance will be pivotal in getting through the tough group stage matches. Chhetri fans and analysts both will wait to see whether he can help India qualify for yet another milestone tournament.
The return of the iconic forward not only fortifies the team but also kindles renewed hope for Indian football’s future.
