When we talk about Indian football, one name stands head and shoulders above the rest—Sunil Chhetri. A player whose influence on the sport in India goes beyond goals and statistics, Chhetri has become a symbol of dedication, professionalism, and perseverance. While his international career is widely celebrated, his contributions to the Indian Super League (ISL) have been equally impactful. As the face of Bengaluru FC and one of the most consistent performers in the league, Chhetri’s ISL journey is a story of loyalty, leadership, and legacy.
The ISL and Indian Football’s New Chapter
Launched in 2014, the Indian Super League was created to revolutionize football in the country. It aimed to bring a new level of professionalism, attract international stars, and create a platform where Indian talent could shine. While many players came and went, Sunil Chhetri remained a constant force—leading by example and raising the standard of Indian football.
Chhetri joined Mumbai City FC during the 2015 ISL season. Though he performed admirably, scoring seven goals in 11 appearances, it was his move to Bengaluru FC that truly defined his ISL career. Bengaluru FC joined the ISL in 2017, after previously competing in the I-League, and Chhetri stayed loyal to the club during the transition.
Captain, Leader, Legend
Chhetri is not just a captain by title—he embodies the role. On the pitch, his work ethic, movement, and clinical finishing have been crucial for Bengaluru FC. Off the pitch, his presence in the locker room and interaction with young players has helped nurture new talent and create a strong team culture.
Under his captaincy, Bengaluru FC reached the ISL final in their debut season (2017-18) and won the championship in 2018-19, with Chhetri playing a pivotal role in their success. That season, he scored nine goals and was involved in numerous key moments that helped the team clinch the title.
What makes Chhetri’s contribution even more impressive is his ability to remain consistent despite aging. Even in his mid-30s, he maintained peak fitness levels and continued to be one of the top Indian performers in the league.
A Role Model for the Next Generation
Sunil Chhetri’s presence in the ISL has had a far-reaching impact. Young Indian players who dream of playing professional football look up to him not just for his achievements but also for his attitude, humility, and discipline. His pre-match routines, commitment to training, and positive mindset have set benchmarks for aspiring footballers.
Moreover, Chhetri’s interactions with fans, his viral motivational videos, and his famous plea for stadium attendance ahead of India’s 2018 Intercontinental Cup game brought attention not just to the national team but to Indian football as a whole. In the ISL, he’s used his platform to promote the game’s growth and to advocate for grassroots development.
The Numbers Speak Too
In the ISL, Chhetri has consistently ranked among the top Indian goal scorers. His tally of over 50 goals in ISL history is an outstanding achievement, particularly as he competes with foreign strikers who dominate attacking roles in many teams.
But Chhetri is more than just a goal scorer. His ability to link play, track back, and make intelligent runs adds a different dimension to Bengaluru FC’s game. His versatility—playing as a striker, winger, or even a second forward—has given coaches tactical flexibility.
The Emotional Farewell
In 2024, Sunil Chhetri announced his retirement from international football, marking the end of an era. While he continues to play at the club level, fans know that the sun is slowly setting on one of Indian football’s brightest stars. His retirement from the national team has only increased the appreciation for what he continues to do in the ISL.
Each appearance, each touch of the ball, and each goal now feels more special. Chhetri remains a vital cog in Bengaluru FC’s machinery, but also a living legend that fans cherish in every game.
Conclusion
The Indian Super League gave Indian football a new identity, and Sunil Chhetri gave it a heart. His journey through the ISL is not just about personal success but about pushing the sport forward in a country where football is still fighting for space.
As fans, we may never see another player quite like him—one who carries the weight of expectation with such grace, one who leads with passion, and one who scores with purpose. In the history of the ISL, Sunil Chhetri’s name will be written not just in record books, but in hearts.