How can India line up against Maldives & Bangladesh after Sunil Chhetri's return?

Back from retirement, will Sunil Chhetri be the difference maker for India once again?

The Indian national football team’s 26-man squad was announced earlier this week for the upcoming games against Maldives and Bangladesh. However, everyone was in for a big shock to see the 40-year-young Sunil Chhetri named in the list.

The Indian legend had announced his international retirement last year, having played what was supposed to be his last game in Indian colours at the VYBK Stadium in Kolkata. The Blue Tigers drew 0-0 with Kuwait on 6th June 2024 as a teary-eyed Chhetri bid farewell to the stadium and went down the tunnel.

However, fast forward to 19th March 2025, Chhetri will be back in the Blue of India. The Indian captain is expected to be a part of the starting XI in the friendly against Maldives and in the AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh on 24th March.

But how can India line up in the upcoming games with Chhetri back in the fray…

Will Sunil Chhetri return to India’s starting XI?

Goalscoring is certainly where the Indian national football team has struggled in recent games. The Blue Tigers managed to score just four goals in 11 international games last year, failing to win even a single game.

Sunil Chhetri has been in good form in the Indian Super League, scoring 12 goals in 23 games for Bengaluru FC and he is also the highest scoring Indian in the league this season. Hence, the Indian football legend is expected to regain the number nine position ahead of Farukh Chaudhary.

Probable XI for India vs Maldives

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Vishal Kaith (GK)

Vishal Kaith is the favourite to play as goalkeeper courtesy his historic season with Mohun Bagan in the ISL. He has kept 14 clean sheets in 23 league games.

Asish Rai (RB)

Asish Rai has been a constant at the right back spot with Mohun Bagan, getting 3 assists in 20 games.

Rahul Bheke (CB)

The Bengaluru FC player has enjoyed a good season with his club and he will be expected to replicate the same with the national team as well.

Sandesh Jhinghan (CB)

Arguably, one of the best players in the country, Sandesh Jhingan will start as the left central defender given how he has transformed FC Goa post his return from injury.

Naorem Roshan Singh (LB)

The left-back position is a toss up between Roshan Singh and Subhasish Bose, but the youngster might edge it as he has been preferred by Manolo Marquez in recent games.

Suresh Wangjam (CDM)

The Bengaluru FC player will probably get the coach’s nod given his experience and presence on the field.

Apuia (CDM)

The 24-year-old has had another decent season in the ISL after joining Mohun Bagan last summer and he is probably the best central midfielder in India at the moment.

Brandon Fernandes (CAM)

With Sahal Abdul Samad and Anirudh Thapa absent from the squad, Brandon along with Apuia will be responsible to create chances and run the game for the Blue Tigers.

Lallianzuala Chhangte (RW)

Lallianzuala Chhangte is expected to start on the right wing even though the Mizo-Flash has had an average season by his standards. Manvir Singh could be another option for the coach.

Irfan Yadwad (LW)

The left wing could be a toss up between Irfan Yadwad, Liston Colaco, and Brison Fernandes. Irfan’s physique, pace, and decent form could help him retain his spot in the starting XI.

Sunil Chhetri (ST)

India need goals, and Sunil Chhetri is the best goalscorer in the country’s history. The Bengaluru FC skipper has been in good form, and hence his return to the national team will certainly help everyone around him.

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