How Manolo Marquez Helped Sunil Chhetri Make the Bold Decision to Continue Playing

Sunil Chhetri, India’s most celebrated footballer, has made a huge decision. The 40-year-old forward has decided to come out of international retirement. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed the news recently, and Chhetri’s return to the Indian national team has stirred excitement among fans. This decision resulted from India’s crucial international fixtures against the Maldives and Bangladesh in March 2025. But what made Sunil Chhetri change his mind? India’s senior men’s national team head coach, Manolo Marquez, is the key player behind this surprising comeback.

Chhetri’s Retirement and the Thought of Returning

Sunil Chhetri announced his international retirement in June 2024, following India’s FIFA World Cup qualifier match against Kuwait. At that time, Chhetri had been playing for his country for almost two decades. He had become India’s most decorated footballer with 94 goals in 151 international appearances. His contributions to Indian football were legendary. However, Chhetri stated that he was stepping away from international football not because of age or physical reasons but due to the emotional and mental pressures of representing the national team. His decision felt final, and the fans thought they had seen his last in the blue jersey.

But, just months later, Sunil Chhetri made a surprising announcement. He would return to play for India in the FIFA International Window in March 2025. The reason behind this sudden decision was not only Chhetri’s thoughts but also a crucial discussion with Manolo Marquez, the coach of the Indian national football team.

Manolo Marquez’s Influence

When Manolo Marquez took over the head coach role for the Indian national team, he quickly realized the importance of having Chhetri on the team. While Chhetri had stepped away from international football, his leadership, experience, and exceptional goal-scoring ability were still unmatched in Indian football. Marquez, understanding the significance of the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers and the friendly match against Bangladesh, felt the need for Chhetri’s return.

In early March 2025, Marquez contacted Chhetri to discuss the national team’s upcoming fixtures. The two had a heart-to-heart conversation about India’s future and the team’s goals. Marquez emphasized the national team's crucial role in securing qualification for the Asian Cup. He knew Chhetri’s experience and leadership would be key to India’s success.

With his calm and motivational approach, Marquez convinced Chhetri that his return would strengthen the team. After much consideration, Chhetri agreed to come back. The decision was difficult. However, Marquez’s encouragement played a major role in helping Chhetri reverse his retirement decision.

Chhetri’s Career Achievements

Sunil Chhetri’s return is significant not only for his leadership but also for his extraordinary football career. Since making his debut in 2005, Chhetri has become one of the best footballers in Asia. He has scored 94 goals for the Indian national team, ranking him among the top international goal-scorers in the world. Only a few players, like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei, have scored more goals than him in international football.

Chhetri’s achievements go beyond his goal tally. He has led the Indian national team in multiple tournaments and was instrumental in helping India win the SAFF Championship in 2011, 2015, and 2021. He also played a key role in India’s qualification for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. His leadership on and off the field has earned him respect from teammates and opponents.

In domestic football, Chhetri has been equally successful. Playing for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League (ISL), he has won numerous accolades and remains one of the league's top goal-scorers. His commitment to the game has made him a nationwide role model for aspiring footballers.

The Importance of Chhetri’s Return

Sunil Chhetri’s return to the Indian national team greatly boosts Indian football. While the team has some talented young players, Chhetri’s experience and skill will be invaluable in the upcoming matches. India’s March matches against Maldives and Bangladesh are critical for their progress in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. The team needs to perform well to ensure their qualification, and Chhetri’s leadership will be essential in guiding them through these tough matches.

Moreover, Chhetri’s return brings a sense of stability to the Indian team. His presence on the field will inspire his teammates to perform at their best. For younger players, having Chhetri in the squad allows them to learn from one of the best in the business. His experience at the international level is something that cannot be replaced.

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