India Omits Sunil Chhetri from Squad for AFC Asian Cup Qualifier
In a significant decision, the Indian football team has left out Sunil Chhetri from the list of potential players for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh on November 5. Unfortunately, India is no longer in contention for the tournament, sitting at the bottom of Group C with just two points. The match against Bangladesh is scheduled to take place in Dhaka on November 18.
Chhetri, who had earlier announced a retirement from international football, made his return to the national squad earlier this year. He played in the first qualifier against Bangladesh in Shillong but has had difficulty finding his form since coach Khalid Jamil took over from Manolo Marquez.
In a move to infuse fresh talent, India has included U-23 player Mohammed Sanan in the senior team for this game. The squad will gather for training in Bengaluru starting November 6, before heading to Dhaka on November 15.
In a statement from the All India Football Federation (AIFF), it was confirmed, “Mohammed Sanan, previously selected for the U-23 squad, will now join the senior team.”
Fans and experts have questioned Jamil’s decision-making regarding Chhetri’s role in recent matches. Bengaluru FC coach Gerard Zaragoza expressed his concerns, pointing out that while Chhetri had an impressive season in the Indian Super League (ISL) with 17 goals, being used as a lone striker in the national team may not be the best strategy.
“This raises questions about whether Chhetri can effectively play that role,” Zaragoza noted.
The latest decision on Chhetri could hint at India’s plans to transition towards younger players for the future.
Squad Overview:
- Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Hrithik Tiwari, Sahil.
- Defenders: Akash Mishra, Anwar Ali, Bikash Yumnam, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Muhammed Uvais, Pramveer, Rahul Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan.
- Midfielders: Ashique Kuruniyan, Brison Fernandes, Lalremtluanga Fanai, Macarton Louis Nickson, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Nikhil Prabhu, Suresh Singh Wangjam.
- Forwards: Irfan Yadwad, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Mohammed Sanan, Rahim Ali, Vikram Partap Singh.
As the team prepares for the challenging match ahead, all eyes will be on how the new lineup performs in Dhaka.
