Sunil Chhetri India Goals: Indian Football’s wonder-boy and legend, Sunil Chhetri continues to defy critics through his awe-inspiring performances.
The Indian striker scored in the 4-0 thumping of Hong Kong in their final AFC Asian Cup Qualifier to not only finish top of the table but also go through unbeaten.
That strike was Chhetri’s 84th for the country, equalling Hungarian great, Puskas’ tally and within a goal of entering the top 5 list for most international goals.
Apart from innumerable records, goals and career inspiring moments; Chhetri has always shown his fondness for playing in Europe.
Sunil had an opportunity early on in his career when he took trials at Coventry and QPR, but eventually could not make it.
Sunil Chhetri has scored goal no. 84 🎉
🇮🇳 He is two goals behind Lionel Messi 🇦🇷#IndianFootball #BackTheBlue #ACQ2023 pic.twitter.com/OqI9WpNxMB
— GOAL India (@Goal_India) June 14, 2022
There were restrictions regarding his move to QPR in 2011 when he could not get his work permit on time due to the British rules. India wasn’t in the top 70 rankings then which affected his move to get to a European Club.
However, the player continued to put in the hard-work and now holds his place as one of the greats of the game.
With that being said, we take a look at few reasons why Sunil Chhetri should play in European leagues despite the past.
Goals!!! All the way
Sunil Chhetri has shown his capabilities in front of goal with his skills, ability to poach and be on target when required.
His recent free-kick goal against Afghanistan shows his incredible goal-scoring prowess and thirst to still remain right up with the crème-de-la-crème of the game.
#SunilChhetri #backtheblues#indianfootball
King has equalized puskas 84 and counting….. pic.twitter.com/Ba6OH0EIkv— luv ak (@akshaykokare9) June 14, 2022
Chhetri brings in valuable goals to any side through his movement, fluidity and tremendous passing range.
Experience
The striker is 37-years-old and has been active on the international circuit since 2005.
It is every dream of a footballer to play in Europe for obvious reasons; quality, exposure is second to none and it isn’t easy to get the same in other nations.
But now Sunil has faced rejection, come back hard and delivered for a nation still growing at the game.
His experience can be vital to any player who contacts him at a European club as there is no substitute for experience.
Experience brings innovations, ideas and support which players require in today’s day and age which helps them progress to greater heights.
The striker’s experience at a European club can be immense to the young lads as they have a mentor to learn from.
Quality footballer
Also read: India Thrash Hong Kong: India thrash Hong Kong to finish on top in Group D
Irrespective of whichever nation one plays for; to find yourself in the list of international goal scorers is a matter of excellence and pride.
The Bengaluru FC player has shown glimpses and more of his quality on the pitch throughout and has the ability to pull in crowds as well.
Chhetri is the Indian Messiah due to whom football has found a voice and standpoint in Indian Sports today.
The quality, exuberance and passion brought in by the striker ensures happiness and love to all the football fans in the nation and across the World.
Mental Toughness
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European Football is no backyard football as it requires insane amount of mental strength and toughness.
Sunil’s career has seen many ups and downs due to which he will be ready to give another go in European clubs.
His growth, maturity and insatiable appetite for success and taking the nation to greater heights in football shows his toughness and commitment.
🔥 Goal
🧊 Reaction🙌🏽 Sunil Chhetri!
📹: Indian Footballpic.twitter.com/3YpkAR0AEW
— The Field (@thefield_in) June 13, 2022
Undoubtedly, there is a gulf between Indian and European football but Chhetri could be the person to reduce this difference if given a chance
Peak Form
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Chhetri recently believes that his peak form is almost there and will be soon at his electrifying best.
A move to Europe and excel with that peak form could be just the right move as the lad has a few years left in the tank. Sunil can exhibit his brilliance and stature if given the opportunity.
Would be great to play Asian Cup at home, I’m hitting my peak: Sunil Chhetri https://t.co/EoJo4g3h02
— TOI Sports News (@TOISportsNews) June 15, 2022
Chhetri’s ability to deliver and create magic on the football pitch can help European clubs improve their performance levels.