We Need Players Who Can Score: Coach Marquez on Chhetri’s Return
The Indian national football team is set to face Bangladesh in their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers opener, and in a significant boost, star striker Sunil Chhetri has come out of retirement to join the squad. With Chhetri’s return, hopes are high that the team will finally find the back of the net with some regularity. However, speaking about Chhetri’s return, India’s head coach Manolo Marquez has emphasized the importance of having players who can score goals.
In an interview, Marquez stated, “At this moment, the most important thing is to get results.” While he did not explicitly mention Chhetri’s return, it is clear that the coach is looking forward to the striker’s contributions to the team. India has struggled to score goals under Marquez, managing only two goals in their last four games.
The Indian team has been plagued by a lack of creativity in the final third, with opposing teams often parking the bus and relying on counter-attacks. This has led to a dearth of scoring opportunities, and as a result, India has struggled to win games. However, with Chhetri’s return, the team has a player who has consistently delivered goals throughout his career.
Chhetri is India’s all-time highest scorer with 84 goals and has been the team’s go-to man in front of goal. His return brings a much-needed boost to the team’s morale, and his experience and skill on the pitch can be invaluable in the qualifiers.
Marquez’s emphasis on the need for players who can score goals is also a nod to the team’s recent struggles in front of goal. India has been guilty of squandering chances and failing to convert them into goals. With Chhetri’s return, the coach is hoping that the team will be able to capitalize on their chances and score more goals.
The Indian team has been working on their attacking play, with Marquez introducing new formations and tactics to try and get more goals. However, the team’s lack of clinical finishing has been a major concern, and it is clear that the coach is looking for players who can score goals.
Chhetri’s return is not just about his goal-scoring ability, but also about his leadership and experience. He has been a key player for the Indian team for over a decade and has led the team to several victories. His return will undoubtedly bring a sense of calm and stability to the team, and his presence on the pitch can be a major boost to the team’s morale.
The team’s upcoming game against Bangladesh is a crucial one, and Marquez will be hoping that Chhetri’s return will bring some much-needed firepower to the team. With Chhetri back in the fold, India will be looking to make a strong start to their qualifying campaign and make a push for a spot in the AFC Asian Cup 2027.
In conclusion, Marquez’s emphasis on the need for players who can score goals is a clear indication of the team’s struggles in front of goal. With Chhetri’s return, the team has a player who can make a significant difference, and Marquez will be hoping that his experience and skill will bring some much-needed success to the team.
