Khalid Jamil explains Sunil Chhetri's India
India coach Khalid Jamil says recalling retired legend Sunil Chhetri for friendlies is not the right move, urging fans to respect the striker's decision.
India head coach Khalid Jamil has explained his decision not to recall retired legend Sunil Chhetri for the national team's upcoming friendlies. The Blue Tigers will face three FIFA World Cup nations - Panama, Brazil, and Uruguay - in the September-October FIFA international window, presenting a perfect opportunity for international exposure.
Jamil spoke to PTI, addressing calls from some fans for Chhetri's return. He pleaded for respect for the striker's choice to end his international career.
India's September-October friendly schedule
The Indian team will play three matches against FIFA World Cup nations. The fixtures are as follows:
| Opponent | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Panama | 26 September | Bengaluru |
| Brazil | 3 October 2026 | VYBK Stadium, Kolkata |
| Uruguay | 6 October 2026 | VYBK Stadium, Kolkata |
India will contest against the five-time World champions Brazil and take on the two-time World champions Uruguay.
Jamil urges respect for Chhetri's legacy
Khalid Jamil spoke highly of Sunil Chhetri's contributions. He described the retired forward as a model professional whose behaviour set a standard for others.
He emphasized that Chhetri was not forced into any decision regarding his international career. The coach detailed the sequence of events, stating he did not force Sunil. Jamil explained that Chhetri was injured in the first camp before the CAFA Cup, which is why he was not taken. After a conversation, Chhetri decided to join, played two matches, and then chose to stop. Jamil confirmed he did not force him at any point.
Jamil added that he saw Sunil's behaviour and that India needs a player like him.
Chhetri described as India's number one
Jamil left no doubt about his admiration for the former captain. He called Chhetri India's top player and highlighted his enduring hunger and discipline.
The coach noted he rarely singles out individual players by name. He made an exception for Chhetri, whose conduct on and off the field he found exemplary, saying he had not seen such a player otherwise.
Jamil admitted the team misses Chhetri's presence. The coach believes having more players with Chhetri's attitude would benefit Indian football.
The upcoming friendlies present a significant challenge for India. Facing World Cup nations like Brazil and Uruguay offers valuable exposure. Jamil's squad will prepare for these tests without their all-time leading goal scorer.
Khalid Jamil's comments aim to manage fan expectations while honouring a legend. He frames Chhetri's retirement as a personal decision that commands respect from the entire football community.
