Baichung Bhatia SLAMS Sunil Chhetri for returning from international retirement

India’s hopes of progressing in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers suffered a major setback as they lost to Singapore, effectively ending their chances of advancing from the third round despite two matches still left to play. The defeat underscores a disappointing period for Indian football, where momentum gained from past qualifications in 2019 and 2023 has stalled. Fans and analysts alike are now questioning the future direction of the Blue Tigers.

A Disappointing Campaign

India currently sits at the bottom of their third-round qualification group, trailing behind Hong Kong, Singapore, and Bangladesh. The team has failed to secure a win in four matches, managing only two draws along the way. This run of results signals a clear need for reassessment, with experts suggesting that the team must rethink its strategy, selection, and long-term development plan.

The recent performances reveal structural and tactical challenges. While individual talent is present, cohesion and consistency have been lacking. The team has struggled to convert chances, maintain defensive stability, and exert dominance against teams that are, on paper, at a similar level. The losses have exposed gaps in leadership on the field, particularly as some veteran players have returned after initial retirements but have not had the impact expected.

Bhutia Calls for Transition

Former Indian captain Baichung Bhutia has strongly suggested that the team needs a period of transition, focusing on youth rather than relying on the remaining senior players. He believes that it is now the right moment to invest in the next generation and allow fresh talent to gain international experience. Bhutia indicated that while veterans like Sunil Chhetri and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu have contributed significantly to Indian football, it is time for them to step aside permanently.

Bhutia also reflected on Chhetri’s recent decision to come out of retirement, suggesting that it may have hindered rather than helped the team. He pointed out that the 41-year-old forward was unable to turn around India’s struggling form, and that relying on players of the past could delay the growth of younger talents who need game time on the international stage. The Sikkimese legend emphasized that fresh blood is essential to reinvigorate the team’s strategy and morale.

Setting Realistic Priorities

In his comments, Bhutia highlighted the need for Indian football to focus on the sport itself rather than being drawn into models of commercialisation or emulating European leagues. He argued that football should prioritise fundamentals, player development, and tactical consistency over glamour and corporate-driven structures. According to Bhutia, the obsession with replicating leagues like the Premier League or La Liga has diverted attention from what the sport should be in India.

He stressed that qualifying for the Asia Cup should be a baseline expectation for India. The failure to secure a spot despite 24 teams being allowed in the tournament is a clear indication that current approaches are not yielding results. Bhutia expressed concern that aspirations of reaching global tournaments like the World Cup are unrealistic if India cannot consistently perform at regional competitions.

Looking Ahead

India now faces the challenge of regrouping and planning for the future. The emphasis, according to experts and former players, should be on identifying and nurturing young players who can handle the pressures of international football. There is a call for structural reforms, improved coaching, and providing more exposure to emerging talents through competitive matches.

The upcoming matches, while no longer affecting qualification, could serve as opportunities to test these younger players and lay the groundwork for a more competitive squad. Bhutia believes that such a transitional phase, though painful in the short term, is necessary to rebuild confidence and establish a sustainable foundation for Indian football.

Ultimately, the current setbacks should be a moment of reflection for the entire ecosystem. Indian football has a pool of talent and potential, but without decisive action and prioritisation of development over short-term results, the nation risks remaining stagnant on the international stage.