Sunil Chhetri hints at retirement after ISL 2025-26 season, says he wants to end on a high

Sunil Chhetri revealed requesting Khalid Jamil to exclude him, calling time on his international career.

Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri has hinted that the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season could mark the final chapter of his glittering career. The Bengaluru FC captain, who has spent nearly two decades leading both club and country, revealed that he plans to call time on his professional journey if his side fails to clinch the ISL title this season.

Speaking to The Times of India, Chhetri shared his thoughts heading into what could be his farewell campaign.

He said, “If we win the ISL, it will give me a chance to wear the national (winning) club colours and play in international competitions again. At 42, it’s not easy. I want to score 15 goals (this season) and retire.”

Sunil Chhetri, who announced his international retirement in June 2024 with a memorable farewell at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, briefly came out of retirement earlier this year at the request of then-India coach Manolo Marquez.

However, after India’s elimination from the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, the veteran confirmed he had played his final game for the national side.

‘It was easy telling Khalid sir,’ says Sunil Chhetri on his final decision

The Indian football team skipper admitted that stepping away this time was a clear-headed and calm decision. He revealed that once India were mathematically out of contention in the qualifiers, there was no emotional struggle in informing head coach Khalid Jamil.

Explaining how it unfolded, Chhetri told TOI, “It was easy telling (coach) Khalid (Jamil) sir about my decision. I joined the national team only to help in the qualifiers. Once we were mathematically out, I was happy telling the coach, and he understood.”

He also reflected on how his comeback earlier this year materialised after Marquez’s repeated calls. The Spaniard reached out after Chhetri’s stellar ISL campaign, where he netted 14 goals, second only to Golden Boot winner Alaaeddine Ajaraie. Initially hesitant, the striker decided to return after consulting his family.

“I was certain I was called because I had done well in ISL. The Asian qualifiers really pushed me to say yes,” he said.

Unfortunately, India’s campaign did not meet expectations. Despite being the highest-ranked team in their group, the Blue Tigers ended winless after four games. Chhetri scored only once in six appearances, taking his international tally to 95 goals.

Reflecting on that, he added, “There are no regrets. The regret is that we did not qualify. For the four games, I really gave my best.”

Also Read: Khalid Jamil reveals reason behind Sunil Chhetri’s absence from India’s probable squad for November FIFA window

India move forward without their ‘captain, leader, legend’

With India knocked out of the qualifiers, head coach Khalid Jamil has decided to respect Chhetri’s wish to step aside. The veteran forward has been left out of the upcoming squad for the AFC Asian Cup Qualifier against Bangladesh on November 18.

India will travel to Dhaka without their long-serving talisman as a new generation prepares to take charge. Jamil, however, has reportedly left the door open should Chhetri ever reconsider. The coach has also praised the 41-year-old’s professionalism and lasting influence on the squad.

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