Former India captain Sunil Chhetri has admitted feeling jealous as his old team prepares for friendlies against the Brazil national team. The honest admission was made in comments to the All India Football Federation (AIFF), as reported by Hindustan Times sports journalist Vishesh Roy this week.
Chhetri, who retired after nearly 20 years with India and over two decades as a pro, never got to play against Brazil or Uruguay. Now, as a fan, he sees the new generation getting a chance he considers unique. The Brazilian squad arrives at this moment in strong form, leading their World Cup 2026 group with 7 points from 3 games, having scored 7 goals and conceded just 1.
Why does Chhetri feel jealous?
Sunil Chhetri was clear about his feeling. "I feel a little jealous as a spectator." the former striker said. He joked about his current physical condition, highlighting the distance from his playing days. "I just trained for 20 minutes. I'm around 42 now, I can barely run properly, and I'm struggling," he added.
His lengthy career, however, did not include matches against the South American powerhouses. He believes the current Indian squad, full of young talent, is ready to make the most of these games. The responsibility for choosing who will face Brazil, he says, lies entirely with the current coaching staff.
What is Brazil's current situation?
While India prepares, the Brazil national team continues its World Cup campaign. The side managed by Carlo Ancelotti maintains a solid run, with 2 wins and 1 draw in their first three matches. Recent form is impressive, with four wins in the last five games, despite a 2-1 loss to Norway on July 5th.
Full details of the campaign and the squad can be found on our standings page and the team profile. The next official fixture is an away match against Australia, scheduled for September 25th, an important test before the friendlies against India.
What does this mean for Indian football?
For Chhetri, these friendlies represent a milestone in Indian football's development. He has passed the torch to a new generation and now takes on the role of a fan, watching from the outside. His admission of jealousy is actually an acknowledgment of the sport's growth in his country and the prestige of testing themselves against a team like Brazil.
Journalist Vishesh Roy, who joined Hindustan Times in October 2024, brought these candid comments to light. They paint a picture of a sports icon who, even in retirement, roots for his successors' progress. The chance to face the five-time world champions is a watershed moment. Brazil's preparation continues with full focus on the World Cup, and friendlies are part of that cycle. Brazil's next match is against Australia on September 25th.
