First steps: Sunil Chhetri’s first steps in football were taken at Mamta Modern School. Soon he shifted to City Football Club from where he was spotted. Photo: AIFF
Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri announced on Thursday that he will retire from international football after the FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Kuwait in Kolkata on June 6, ending a remarkable two-decade career.
The long-serving national team captain shared his decision in a video posted on his social media accounts.
India currently stands second in Group A with four points, trailing leaders Qatar.
“The match against Kuwait will be my last,” the 39-year-old Chhetri said.
Chhetri made his 150th appearance for India in March, scoring against Afghanistan in Guwahati, although India lost the game 1-2.
Debuting in 2005, Chhetri has scored 94 goals for India. He will retire as India’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player, ranking third among active goal scorers worldwide, behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
All India Football Federation (AIFF) heaped praises on the retiring captain in response to his announcement on social media.
“Your legacy on and off-the-field will always be remembered,” AIFF said in a post on X.
“Thank you @chetrisunil11 for your leadership, dedication and commitment to Indian football.”(With inputs from PTI)
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