Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri has signed a one-year extension with Bengaluru FC on Monday. The one-year deal includes an option for an additional year, securing Chhetri's future with the club.
As the world's third-highest goal-scorer among active players, Chhetri proudly revealed his commitment to Bengaluru FC by unveiling a banner at the Kanteerava Stadium following India's triumph over Lebanon in the SAFF Championship semifinal on Saturday. With this extension, Chhetri will continue his journey with the club, with whom he has already won seven trophies.
"I have signed a Bengaluru FC contract a fair few times, and what I can tell you is that it always feels special, even when it probably should not, given it is a formality. I am so happy that I will be spending two more years here," expressed Chhetri after putting pen to paper.
Chhetri acknowledged the significant role played by the fans in influencing his decision. Despite receiving generous offers from other prestigious clubs over the years, Chhetri couldn't fathom leaving Bengaluru FC due to the profound impact the fans have had on him.
As the club captain since its inception in 2013, Chhetri holds the distinction of being the longest-serving player for the Blues, having been an integral part of the team for ten seasons. During this remarkable tenure, he has contributed to the club's success, securing titles such as the I-League (2014, 2016), the Federation Cup (2015, 2017), the Super Cup (2018), Indian Super League (2019), and most recently, the Durand Cup (2022).
"The strong bond between this city, the club, and all the people associated with it is truly exceptional. As a footballer, experiencing this level of connection is rare and special. I feel fortunate, grateful, and happy, and I hope that everyone associated with this family feels the same way about this extension," Chhetri added.
Chhetri has amassed over 250 appearances for Bengaluru FC across various competitions, showcasing his exceptional talent by scoring an impressive 116 goals in the process. He has also claimed the title of the club's top-scorer on seven occasions.
Parth Jindal, the owner of Bengaluru FC, expressed his delight and honored the club's bond with Chhetri, stating, "It is an absolute honor and privilege for us at Bengaluru FC that Sunil Chhetri has chosen to extend his stay with the club. He has been the face of this football club and continues to be its flag bearer. In so many ways, Bengaluru FC and Sunil Chhetri are inseparable, and we're sure he will be part of many more memorable and successful moments with the team that he has made his own."
The unveiling of a banner during the SAFF Championship semifinal came as a pleasant surprise to Bengaluru FC's loyal fans at the Kanteerava Stadium. The banner displayed the words, "(Bengaluru), I'm going nowhere. Sunil Chhetri," accompanied by a video shared on the club's social media platforms.
Also read: 'I don't know when will be my last game for India': Sunil Chhetri
(With PTI inputs)