In a surprise move to many, Sunil Chhetri, the biggest Indian football name, was left out of the 35 probables list that was released by new coach Khalid Jamil for the coming CAFA Nations Cup. The move leaves many wondering and questioning, although Jamil already offered an explanation for why this was done.
A Historic Appointment
Khalid Jamil was recently appointed, the first Indian coach in 13 years to work with the men’s national team. His first big assignment was to build a team for India’s historic first-ever appearance in the CAFA Nations Cup, which is run by the Central Asian Football Association. For him, the key now is rebuilding and testing the team structure, and not solely relying on veterans.
Why Chhetri is Missing
Jamil clarified that the CAFA Nations Cup can be considered a warm-up period prior to the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers in October. He indicated that he would like to evaluate other players, to try them out, and also to establish greater squad depth. It was established that excluding Chhetri is temporary or not against him but an opportunity to observe new possibilities.
Coach’s Statement
Jamil said clearly, “It’s always a pleasure to have a player like him on the team, and the door is always open.” He also called Chhetri a “legend of Indian football and a role model.” His words show respect for Chhetri, while still keeping focus on trying new talent at this stage.
Chhetri’s Recent Journey
Chhetri previously had announced retirement following India’s World Cup qualifier match against Kuwait in June 2024. Subsequently, in March 2025, he returned because then-coach Manolo Márquez asked him to. He since played four matches and scored once, in a 3-0 win against the Maldives. His return established that he can still deliver, but this current exclusion narrates that management is seeking to balance between experience and future demands.
The Road Ahead
India will battle for a berth in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, with crucial matches against Singapore during October, away and home. That is the reason why the CAFA Nations Cup is being used as an experiment stage to test fitness, condition, and depth of strength. Young players will have a chance to find their feet, while Chhetri is still an option later on.
A Calculated Approach
This does not imply the chapter is shut on Chhetri. It instead demonstrates a cautious transition. On one hand, there is the respect for a player who bore Indian football on his shoulders for years, and on the other is team-building with the future at stake. Jamil is apparently attempting to balance both sides.
Conclusion
The non-selection of Sunil Chhetri from CAFA Nations Cup probables is not the end of his international journey. It is rather a plan of the new coach to try other alternatives. With the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers around the corner, India is at a stage where blending of youngster with experience will become essential. For now, Chhetri is excluded, yet his comeback and influence hold very strong within the narrative of Indian football.
