India’s newly appointed head coach Khalid Jamil has revealed why Sunil Chhetri has not been included in India’s preparatory camp in Bengaluru ahead of the CAFA Nations Cup. The former Jamshedpur FC manager said he wants to try out a few new players and he had a word with Chhetri regarding the same.

Jamil revealed that the national selection doors are open for the veteran, and thus denied any rumours regarding Chhetri’s future. The veteran forward, who retired in June 2024 before taking a U-turn on his decision in March earlier this year, is one of the best players ever produced by India and there is definitely some fuel left in his tank.

“Sunil is a legend of Indian football. I have played against him, I’ve seen him play on numerous occasions, and he is one of my favourite players. He is a role model for Indian football, and the door is always open for him,” said Jamil to the-aiff.com.

“He’s not there in this camp because we are playing a tournament which will essentially serve as a preparation for our Asian Cup Qualifiers,” he said.

“I also want to try out a few other players during this FIFA window. I had a talk with him about the same. It’s always a pleasure to have a player like him in the team.”

Jamil said it is his pleasure to serve the Blue Tigers and he would aim to get the best out of his players.

“It is my pleasure to serve the country. It has always been my dream to do this, and it has now come true, so that feels very good. There is a big task ahead of us, and we’ve got many areas that we need to work on. I am fully aware how big a responsibility it is for me, but I feel thankful that the Federation (AIFF) felt me worthy to be entrusted with it,” Jamil expressed.

India will play against Tajikistan on 29th August at the Hisor Central Stadium.