Sunil Chhetri announces retirement from international football

Sunil Chhetri posted an emotional video on social media this morning to share the same.

Indian football fans are set to bid farewell to one of their greatest icons as Sunil Chhetri, the captain and all-time leading goal-scorer for the Indian national team, has announced his retirement from international football. Chhetri revealed that he would be hanging up his boots after India’s FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match against Kuwait on June 6 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.

Chhetri’s decision comes after an illustrious international career that spanned an incredible 19 years. Making his senior team debut against Pakistan in 2005, Chhetri went on to become the face of Indian football, earning 150 caps and scoring an impressive 94 goals for the national team.

I'd like to say something… pic.twitter.com/xwXbDi95WV

— Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) May 16, 2024

The 39-year-old striker made the announcement through a poignant and enigmatic 10-minute video on his social media handles. In the video, Chhetri took a trip down memory lane, recounting his most cherished moments wearing the Indian jersey and expressing gratitude to all the coaches, staff and teammates that he has played under during his tenure with the national team.

Chhetri’s decision to retire from international football comes at a crucial juncture for Indian football as the team is set to play two crucial World Cup qualifiers. Following the game against Kuwait on June 6, India will face Qatar away on June 11. These matches will decide India’s fate in their quest to advance to the third round of the World Cup Qualifiers.

Sunil Chhetri has been more than just a player for the Indian national team; he has been a symbol of inspiration, leadership, and resilience. His contributions to Indian football go beyond the goals he scored; he has been a mentor to younger players and a driving force behind the growth of football in the country.

Chhetri’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian football. His legacy as one of the greatest footballers the country has ever produced is cemented, and his influence will be felt for generations to come. 

Khel Now extends its warm wishes to Sunil Chhetri as he embarks on the next chapter of his journey, and thanks him for his invaluable contribution to Indian football.

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