India's football icon Sunil Chhetri has revealed that the upcoming 2025-26 Indian Super League (ISL) season could mark the final chapter of his legendary career. The 42-year-old Bengaluru FC captain, in an interview with The Times of India, shared that his future hinges on how the season unfolds, admitting that age and results will shape his decision. 'If we manage to win the ISL, it will give me another chance to represent the club on the continental stage,' Chhetri said. 'But at 42, I know it's getting tougher. My target is to score 15 goals this season and then call it a day.'
Chhetri's announcement comes after a storied career that has seen him become one of the most recognizable faces in Indian football. He retired from international football in June 2024 with an emotional farewell at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, but returned briefly to the national team in mid-2025 following a personal request from head coach Manolo Marquez. However, with India's exit from the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers after a winless campaign, his second stint was short-lived. 'It wasn't hard telling Khalid sir about my decision,' Chhetri shared, referring to Bengaluru FC head coach Khalid Jamil. 'When I came back, my only aim was to help India in the qualifiers. That was it. If the qualifiers hadn't been there, I probably wouldn't have returned. Once we were out, I felt at peace stepping away again, and the coach understood.'
The Final Season Looms
Chhetri's tenure with Bengaluru FC has been nothing short of remarkable. He joined the club in 2016 and has since become its all-time leading scorer, helping the team win the ISL title in 2018-19 and reach multiple finals. The upcoming season, however, appears to be his last. 'I've played long enough to know how football works,' he said, reflecting on the possibility of not achieving his goal. 'There are no regrets about returning. The only regret is that we couldn't qualify. I gave my best every game.' His target of 15 goals is ambitious for a player of his age, but Chhetri has consistently defied expectations. In the 2024-25 ISL season, he scored 14 goals, just one behind the Golden Boot winner Alaaeddine Ajaraie. This impressive form was what prompted Marquez to reach out to him for the national team call-up.
A Brief International Comeback
Initially, Chhetri had turned down Marquez's first approach in early 2025. The veteran striker had retired from international football to focus on his club career and personal life. But after his strong ISL performance and encouragement from family and friends, he reconsidered. 'I knew the call came because of my ISL form,' he explained. 'The qualifiers made me say yes in the end.' Despite his efforts, the Indian team failed to deliver. Ranked top in its group, India did not win any of its four qualifying matches, leading to an early exit. Chhetri scored once in six appearances during his comeback, adding to his already glittering international tally. He finished his international career with 95 goals, placing him fourth on the all-time men's goalscoring list, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei. Among active players, only Ronaldo and Messi have more goals.
Leadership and Legacy
During his return to the national fold, Chhetri declined to reclaim the captain's armband, preferring to let other senior players like Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Sandesh Jhingan, and Rahul Bheke take on leadership responsibilities. 'I'm thankful to the national camp for the warmth and respect I received,' he said. 'It felt like rejoining family. The bitter part is that we didn't qualify. We had the team to do it, but we fell short.' His decision to step back from captaincy showcased his selfless nature and commitment to building a new generation of leaders. Chhetri has been a mentor to many young footballers in India, and his influence extends beyond the pitch. He is known for his professionalism, discipline, and humility, traits that have made him a role model for aspiring athletes.
Chhetri's career is a testament to longevity and consistency. He made his international debut in 2005 against Pakistan and scored his first goal in the same match. Over the next two decades, he became the face of Indian football, leading the team to victories in the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, the 2011 Asian Cup, and the 2019 Intercontinental Cup. His 95 international goals include crucial strikes in World Cup qualifiers, Asian Cup tournaments, and friendly matches. In the ISL, he has scored over 70 goals, making him the league's second-highest all-time scorer. His ability to perform at a high level at 42 is a result of rigorous fitness routines and a deep love for the game.
What's Next for Bengaluru FC?
As Chhetri prepares for what could be his final club season, the focus shifts to Bengaluru FC's ambitions under head coach Khalid Jamil. The team has been rebuilding after a few lean seasons, and Chhetri's presence remains vital both on and off the field. 'My target is to help the team win the ISL and get back to continental football,' he said. 'That would be the perfect ending.' Bengaluru FC has a rich history in Asian competitions, having reached the AFC Cup final in 2016. A strong ISL campaign could secure them a spot in the AFC Champions League or AFC Cup, providing Chhetri with one last chance to compete on the Asian stage.
Chhetri's retirement, when it comes, will mark the end of an era for Indian football. He is not only a prolific goalscorer but also a symbol of the sport's growth in the country. His journey from a young boy in Delhi to a global football icon has inspired millions. He has played in three FIFA World Cup qualifying campaigns, led India to the Asian Cup twice, and has been named AIFF Player of the Year multiple times. Off the pitch, he has been involved in various charitable initiatives and has been a vocal advocate for football development in India.
The 2025-26 ISL season will be closely watched by fans and experts alike. Whether Chhetri achieves his target of 15 goals or not, his legacy is already secure. He has given everything to the sport, and his decision to step away on his own terms is a fitting tribute to a career defined by dignity and grace. As he takes the field for Bengaluru FC this season, every match could be a part of his farewell tour. 'I'm at peace with whatever happens,' Chhetri said. 'I've had a wonderful journey, and I'm grateful for every moment.'
Source: MSN News