I’m ready to give my best, says Sunil Chhetri ahead of Kerala Blasters clash in ISL

The Blues are still unbeaten at the Sree Kanteerava this season.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Bengaluru FC captain Sunil Chhetri spoke candidly ahead of their highly anticipated match week 11 clash against Kerala Blasters FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. While reflecting on the season so far, including the team’s form, Chhetri shared his insights and optimism ahead of a must-win game.

The Indian icon has been one of Bengaluru’s best players this season and leads the team with five goals in 10 appearances this season. Back home at the Sree Kanteerava, the all-time leading scorer in ISL history is hoping for a return to winning ways.

Sunil Chhetri is banking on the Kanteerava atmosphere

The 40-year-old addressed Bengaluru FC’s mixed bag of results in recent weeks. Chhetri expressed confidence in Bengaluru to turn things around after their 4-2 loss against Odisha FC in matchweek 10 at the Kalinga Stadium.

While talking about the team’s overall progress, “The good thing is everyone is fit, everyone is motivated. We are playing at Kanteerava, so we always, no matter where and who we play against, feel good here. More so this season because we feel stronger, we feel more united, we feel more potent as a group. So we are looking forward to the game against Kerala tomorrow.”

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Bengaluru will be looking to do the double over rivals Kerala

While highlighting the intense rivalry with Kerala Blasters FC over the years, he shared his feelings on how the fixture had grown over the years into one of Indian football’s marquee matchups. The Bengaluru forward stated, “It’s one of the best games for a neutral to watch. The rivalry is fierce, and the fans always circle it on their calendars.”

Chhetri also acknowledged the importance of the fixture for Indian football. He spoke glowingly about the passionate fan engagement, which has elevated the fixture’s intensity in recent years. While talking about the rivalry, he stated, “Whether in Kochi or Kanteerava, it’s a battle that resonates beyond the pitch.”

Is the end near for Sunil Chhetri in Bengaluru colors?

The veteran striker is a player known for his humility and humor and reflected on his role in the squad this season. While recording only a handful of starts and playing as a substitute in recent games, Sunil Chhetri stated, “Whether it’s 10 minutes or 90, I’m ready to give my best. I love this club too much to worry about these things.”

Talking about his potential retirement in the upcoming years, Chhetri remained pragmatic yet emotional about the subject. He stated, “I’m 41; it’s not easy, but I enjoy every bit of it. I know it’s going to end soon, and that motivates me to keep pushing…I hope I can have a fairy tale ending the way I had for the national team where I could decide exactly when and where. I’m not sure whether I can have it in the club, but I hope I get it.”

Ahead of a must-win encounter against rivals Kerala Blasters FC, Bengaluru FC will be looking to follow Chhetri’s leadership and passion. A player in the twilight years of his career, Chhetri will undoubtedly be a player, who will be the backbone for them this season.

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