Luka Modric Sends Heartfelt Farewell to Sunil Chhetri Ahead of Final International Game
News Mania Desk/ Agnibeena Ghosh/9th June 2024
Real Madrid star midfielder and Croatia captain Luka Modric sent a special farewell message to India’s captain Sunil Chhetri as he prepares for his final international game. Ahead of India’s FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kuwait on June 6, coach Igor Stimac shared Modric’s message, in which the Los Blancos number 10 congratulated Chhetri on his illustrious 19-year international career. Chhetri announced his retirement on May 16, and Indian football fans, along with former players, have been eagerly anticipating his last appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
Throughout his prestigious career, Chhetri has achieved numerous records and has been a crucial player for India, often scoring vital goals when his team needed them most. He made his national team debut on June 12, 2005, in a friendly match against Pakistan, and since then, he has become one of the most prominent figures in international football. Chhetri is currently the third-highest goalscorer in men’s international football with 94 goals, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
As Chhetri, known as ‘Captain Fantastic,’ prepares for his final match, he hopes to end his journey with a victory that will also boost India’s chances of progressing to the next round. In his video message, Modric said, “Hi Sunil! I just want to say hello and wish you all the best for your last game with the national team. Congratulations on your career. You are a legend of this game, and to your teammates, I hope you make his last game special and unforgettable. Good luck and win for your captain. All the best and love from Croatia.”
Modric, who is currently in Germany preparing for Croatia’s UEFA Euro 2024 campaign, recently celebrated winning his sixth UEFA Champions League title with Real Madrid on June 2. His message underscores the global respect and admiration for Chhetri’s contributions to football.
As India’s football fans gear up to bid farewell to their beloved captain, the significance of Chhetri’s career is clear. He has not only been a prolific goalscorer but also a symbol of dedication and passion for Indian football. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players in India and around the world.
Chhetri’s final game promises to be an emotional event, filled with tributes and memories of his remarkable journey. As he steps onto the field one last time, the football community will celebrate the achievements of a player who has left an indelible mark on the sport.
