Football

No comparison with Lionel Messi, the whole world is his fan – Sunil Chhetri

 

India’s football captain Sunil Chhetri has played down comparisons with the great Lionel Messi. Chhetri recently overtook Messi’s tally of goals (72) after he scored a brace against Bangladesh at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Monday. Chhetri stated that there is no comparison with Messi and the whole world, including him, is Argentine’s fan.

Chhetri became the second highest active goalscorer and he is only behind Cristaino Ronaldo. The Portugal international has scored 103 goals in his glorious career. On the other hand, Argentine Lionel Messi is fourth on the list of highest active goalscorers as he has found the back of the net on 72 occasions in 143 matches.

“I am not annoyed with this comparison but my take on it is this: there is no comparison whatsoever with Messi or any player in that category. There are thousands of players better than me. People who understand football, they know it,” he said. “I am proud of scoring 74 goals for my country. Till the last match I play I will give my best.”

“When anyone sees those (top goal scorer) charts, be happy for five seconds as an Indian and that’s about it. Forget about me and Messi because the whole world, including me, is a fan of Messi.”

On the other hand, there has been a lot of talk regarding Sunil Chhetri’s retirement as he is 36 years old. However, the talisman added that he is enjoying his football and the thought of hanging his boots hasn’t crossed his mind.

“I’m not thinking about hanging my boots. I’m not arrogant here. I am enjoying my football. I have never been fitter than now. I am 36 but the zeal and hunger of playing for the country is still there,” Chhetri said in an online interaction from Doha. “A lot of people ask I am 36 and how long I will continue. I am not bothered. People will have opinions and I am fine with that. The day I don’t enjoy my football, I will go, I will not be there.”

India next face Afghanistan on June 15th at the same venue as they will hope to finish third in Group E which would seal their place in the 2023 Asian Cup.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Harbhajan Singh lauds KL Rahul, says he reminds him of Rahul Dravid

Indian opener KL Rahul and former head coach Rahul Dravid not only share the same… Read More

June 24, 2025

Nasser Hussain hails Rishabh Pant after twin centuries, says he is a nightmare to captain against

Former England captain Nasser Hussain lauded Rishabh Pant for his fearless batting approach after the… Read More

June 24, 2025

Hemang Badani compares KL Rahul with Murali Vijay, hails opener for technique in English conditions

Former Indian batter Hemang Badani lauded KL Rahul for playing with a solid technique in… Read More

June 24, 2025

KL Rahul backs Rishabh Pant to be himself after twin centuries against England

Indian opener KL Rahul wants Rishabh Pant to be himself in order to get the… Read More

June 24, 2025

KL Rahul reveals bowling plans for 5th day of opening Test against England

Indian opener KL Rahul has revealed that their bowlers would look to bowl straight and… Read More

June 24, 2025

Sanjay Manjrekar says Rishabh Pant is making rapid strides, just like Bumrah

Former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar said India’s wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant is making rapid strides,… Read More

June 24, 2025