Veteran defender Anas Edathodika, hailed as one of India’s best, has announced his retirement from football following Malappuram FC’s 2-2 draw, which ended the team’s Kerala Super League campaign short of the semi-finals.

Known for his rock-solid partnership with fellow defender Sandesh Jhingan, Edathodika brought a unique defensive strength to the Indian national team.

The duo became renowned for their formidable “defensive solidarity,” anchoring India’s backline with consistency and skill.

Anas first retired from international football in January 2019 but returned just months later, answering a call from national team coach Igor Stimac to play in the Intercontinental Cup that June.

As one of the finest footballers to represent Kerala at the national level and the last defender from the state to wear the Indian jersey, Edathodika’s career has been a proud chapter for Indian football.

The 37-year-old Kerala native, regarded as one of India’s finest defenders, had made an unexpected return to the field with Gokulam Kerala FC after initially stepping away from competitive football with Jamshedpur FC in 2021-22.

His return to Kerala football, inspired by Gokulam’s vision for him in the I-League, reflected his enduring passion for the sport and pride in representing his home state.

After a successful stint with Gokulam Kerala in the I-League, he joined Malappuram FC, where he played his final season.