In a monumental decision that marks the end of an illustrious era in Indian football, Sunil Chhetri, the revered striker, has declared his retirement from international football. The 39-year-old maestro will bid adieu to the national team after his final appearance in the second round of the World Cup qualifiers against Kuwait on June 6, slated to take place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
I'd like to say something… pic.twitter.com/xwXbDi95WV
— Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) May 16, 2024
Chhetri, a towering figure in Indian football history, leaves behind a legacy adorned with remarkable achievements. With an impressive tally of 94 goals in 150 appearances for the nation, he solidifies his position as the greatest footballer produced by India. Notably, he stands fourth in the all-time list of international goal-scorers, a testament to his unparalleled prowess on the field.
The announcement of his retirement was made via a poignant 10-minute video shared on his social media platform, where Chhetri reflected on his decision to conclude his illustrious national career.
Reflecting on the future of Indian football, Chhetri emphasized the need for the country to groom the next generation of talent, particularly in the striker position. He highlighted the absence of a prolific #9 in the current national team setup, underscoring the importance of addressing this critical gap for the team’s future success.
Looking forward to his final match against Kuwait, Chhetri exuded a sense of calm and gratitude, cherishing every moment he has shared with the national team. Reflecting on his remarkable journey spanning 19 years, he reminisced about the mix of duty, pressure, and joy that defined his illustrious career, emphasizing the profound impact representing his country has had on him.
“As I take this step towards retirement, I carry with me cherished memories of my time representing the nation,” Chhetri remarked. “From the exhilarating highs to the challenging lows, every moment has been etched in my heart. It’s time for me to pass the torch and watch as the next generation of Indian footballers rise to the occasion.”
As Chhetri prepares to hang up his boots on the international stage, Indian football bids farewell to a true legend, whose contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.
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