We Need Players Who Can Score: Coach Marquez on Chhetri’s Return
The Indian football team is gearing up for their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers opener against Bangladesh, and the return of Sunil Chhetri to the squad has raised hopes among fans. Chhetri, India’s all-time highest goal-scorer, had announced his retirement from international football in August last year. However, he has now decided to make a comeback, and India’s head coach Manolo Marquez is thrilled to have him back on board.
In an exclusive interview, Marquez spoke about Chhetri’s return and the team’s preparations for the upcoming match against Bangladesh. When asked about Chhetri’s return, Marquez emphasized the importance of players who can score goals. “At this moment, the most important thing is to get results,” he stated. “We need players who can score goals. We need players who can make the difference in the game.”
India’s recent performances under Marquez have been decent, but they have struggled to score goals. In four games, they have managed to score only two goals, which is a cause for concern. Marquez acknowledged that the team needs to work on their attacking prowess. “We need to create more chances and score more goals. We need to be more clinical in front of the goal,” he said.
Chhetri’s return is a big boost for the team, and Marquez is excited to have him back in the squad. “Sunil is a legend of Indian football, and his return is a big boost for the team. He is a player who knows how to score goals and make a difference in the game,” Marquez said.
Chhetri’s experience and leadership skills will be invaluable to the team, especially in big games like the AFC Asian Cup. Marquez praised Chhetri’s work ethic and dedication, saying, “Sunil is a hard worker and a dedicated player. He has always been committed to the team and has always given his best for the country.”
Despite Chhetri’s return, Marquez is not taking anything for granted. He knows that Bangladesh will be a tough opponent, and India will need to be at their best to get a positive result. “Bangladesh is a tough team, and we need to be prepared for a tough game. We need to work hard and give our best if we want to get a good result,” Marquez said.
India’s preparation for the AFC Asian Cup has been hampered by injuries to key players like Ashique Kuruniyan and Udanta Singh. Marquez is aware of the challenges posed by injuries, but he is confident that his team can overcome them. “Injuries are a part of the game, and we need to adapt to the situation. We have a good squad, and we will do our best to get a good result,” Marquez said.
The Indian football team has a long way to go before they can be considered a top-tier team. Marquez knows that the team needs to improve in many areas, but he is optimistic about their prospects. “We need to work hard and improve in many areas. We need to be more clinical in front of the goal, and we need to be more consistent in our performances. But I am confident that we can achieve our goals,” Marquez said.
In conclusion, Chhetri’s return is a huge boost for the Indian football team, and Marquez is excited to have him back in the squad. The team needs to work on their attacking prowess, and Chhetri’s experience and leadership skills will be invaluable in big games like the AFC Asian Cup. Marquez is aware of the challenges posed by injuries and tough opponents, but he is confident that his team can overcome them and achieve their goals.
