At the age of 38, Sunil Chhetri continues to radiate as the driving force behind the Indian national men’s team. The recently concluded SAFF Championship stands as a resounding testament to his enduring prowess. Yet, amidst this celebration, a lingering question looms in the hearts of us all: Who will step up next? Even head coach Igor Stimac finds himself contemplating the same, for the legacy of greatness must carry on.
With five remarkable goals to his name, the talismanic forward emerged as the uncontested victor, claiming both the coveted Golden Ball and the Golden Boot awards.
Since his debut in 2005 against arch-rivals Pakistan, Chhetri has scored 92 goals for his country. He has become the fourth-highest international goalscorer in men’s football.
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His longevity and consistency are unmatched. He remains one of the sharpest players for the Blue Tigers. Yet, the thought of him retiring is not a matter of “if” but “when.” The day will come, and emotions will run high.
India has to find and develop a talented young talent soon who can fill the enormous void left behind by the talisman’s departure. Throughout the passage of time, several individuals have been hailed as the “Next Sunil Chhetri,” only to vanish swiftly, leaving behind fleeting echoes.
The question lingers: Who will emerge to carry the torch of this cherished legacy? Even head coach Igor Stimac, when confronted with the inquiry, found himself grappling for an answer.
“Again that question?? Why should we think about that while he is playing the best football of his life? Other boys are rising up in the meantime and will see when the time comes how to handle that problem. “ Igor Stimac was quoted saying in this regard.
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Just as our gaze turns eastward to witness the majestic rise of the sun, so do our hopes and aspirations converge upon Chhetri whenever we yearn for a goal. Much like the unwavering sun, he never fails to hit the mark, casting his brilliance upon the field. His unwavering presence inspires a profound sense of belief, for he embodies the essence of consistency and unfailing determination. Resonating with the thought ahead of AFC Asian Cup 2023, Stimac added,
“But knowing our captain, he will do everything to make sure of having the best tournament of his life!! ”
he Indian National Team aims to build upon recent successes and maintain their impressive form into the AFC Asian Cup in January. They have upcoming assignments in the King’s Cup in Thailand (September), the Merdeka Cup in Malaysia (October), and international fixtures in the November-December window.
Following these, they will compete in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers against various opponents, including challenging matches against Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria. Sunil Chhetri and his team eagerly await these future encounters, excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.
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