Sikkimese footballer Nirmal Chettri announced his retirement from professional football through a Facebook post.
He writes, “I’ve lived my dream. Thank you all. It has been an unbelievable journey filled with so many incredible moments, and I feel privileged to have experienced all that I did during my career.”
“From being the village boy from Melli kicking a ball around in the riverside ground to play at Kolkata’s maidan and winning trophies were beyond my wildest dreams. Wearing Indian Football Team’s Blue Jersey was a great honour for me which I wore it with pride and passion. Also sharing the dressing room with many top international & national players will always remain special” the 32-year-old defender writes.
He further writes that he now looks forward to spending quality time with his family.
“It’s been a really tough decision, and one I have discussed with my family and those closest to me. Football will always remain in my blood, and it gives me great pride and satisfaction to look back on the blessed career that I’ve had. I now look forward to spending some quality time with my family & friends and work to give it back to beautiful game and society.”
Sikkimese footballer Chettri lastly extends his thanks to everyone involved in his endeavor, “Lastly, I would like to thank all former clubs, coaches, teammates, medical staffs and importantly my well-wishers for continued support, love and encouragement throughout my career. I have enjoyed every moment of my career and now I officially announce my retirement from professional football. THANK YOU”