India’s iconic forward Sunil Chhetri has once again donned the national colors, marking a remarkable return from international retirement. At 40, the veteran striker reminded fans of his enduring quality with a clinical goal against the Maldives, bringing his international tally to 95—making him the fourth-highest goalscorer in men’s international football. His resurgence in the Indian Super League (ISL) and commitment to guiding India under new head coach Manolo Marquez underscore his invaluable presence. Amid FIFA’s proposed World Cup expansion and India’s footballing ambitions, Chhetri’s return may prove pivotal on and off the pitch.

Chhetri’s Comeback Reflects an Exceptional ISL Campaign

Sunil Chhetri’s return to the Indian national team was far from surprising, given his outstanding domestic form this season.
The Bengaluru FC captain has tallied 12 goals across 24 ISL appearances, placing him as the league’s second-highest scorer. Spanish midfielder Alberto Noguera, a teammate at Bengaluru, remarked on Chhetri’s enduring prowess, noting that his selection was a natural outcome of his performances. Chhetri’s consistency in front of goal underscores his sharpness, even at 40—an age where most forwards have long exited the top tier.

Manolo Marquez’s Call Reignites Chhetri’s National Team Ambitions

Chhetri’s return followed a personal request from India’s new head coach Manolo Marquez, highlighting the veteran’s influence in Indian football.
Although he officially retired from international play in June of the previous year, Chhetri has always voiced a desire to support the national cause. His comeback against the Maldives—marked by his 95th international goal—showed that the passion and hunger to represent India remain intact. Noguera emphasized that Chhetri’s commitment to the national team has never wavered and that his decision to return aligns with his enduring sense of duty.

Leadership Beyond Goals: A Mentor to the Next Generation

Chhetri’s impact extends well beyond his goal tally, offering critical mentorship to emerging Indian talents.
Despite his age, Chhetri continues to be a guiding force for the younger generation. As Noguera pointed out, his leadership and work ethic provide a valuable blueprint for aspiring footballers. His return brings not only skill and experience but also a much-needed veteran presence within a relatively youthful Indian squad. His role could prove instrumental in shaping the next wave of Indian footballers.

FIFA Expansion Could Open Doors for India’s World Cup Dream

FIFA’s consideration of a 64-team format for the 2030 World Cup offers renewed hope for nations like India to secure qualification.
While India’s hopes of reaching the 2026 tournament were dashed after a third-place finish in Group A of the second qualifying round—highlighted by a 2-1 defeat to reigning Asian champions Qatar—the expanded format could change their trajectory. Under coach Marquez and with Chhetri still contributing, India may aim to capitalize on this opportunity, particularly if developmental strides continue both domestically and internationally.

India’s Glorious Past and Elusive Global Aspirations

Despite being a sleeping giant in global football, India’s historical highlights remain decades old.
India’s most celebrated achievements include gold medals at the 1951 and 1962 Asian Games and a commendable fourth-place finish at the 1956 Olympics. However, qualification for a FIFA World Cup remains a dream unfulfilled. With strategic leadership, an improved league structure, and veterans like Chhetri continuing to perform, the nation stands on the brink of potentially rewriting its footballing legacy.

Noguera Balances ISL Success and LaLiga Loyalty

Alberto Noguera has been instrumental in Bengaluru FC’s playoff push while also keeping an eye on his former club, Atlético Madrid.
The Spanish midfielder has contributed five goals and three assists in 22 ISL matches, playing a key role in Bengaluru’s playoff qualification. A former player at Atlético Madrid, Noguera expressed tempered expectations regarding the LaLiga title race. After a 4-2 loss to Barcelona, Atlético sit four points adrift of the leaders—Barcelona and Real Madrid—with fewer games remaining. “They’ll be close,” he said, “but time may not be on their side.”