North Macedonia’s women’s football league club Brera Tiverija had shown interest in signing Bangladesh skipper Sabina Khatun and Ritu Porna Chakma, but the plan has now been postponed.
Tiverija became interested in the Bangladeshi players during the SAFF Women’s Championship in October 2024, where Sabina and her team emerged as champions.
The club had intended to sign Sabina and Ritu for the second phase of their league, with the transfer window opening Wednesday.
However, the deal has been shelved.
“It’s not happening,” said Bangladesh goalkeeping coach Masud Ahamed Uzzal, who facilitated Tiverija’s contact with Sabina and Ritu.
“The sponsor supporting the club (Tiverija) has withdrawn. Their financial condition has deteriorated, and the club president is no longer interested,” Uzzal explained.
“The political context in North Macedonia has also changed. That’s what happens with transfer offers when there’s no financial backing.”
Ritu also cited a lack of budget and political issues as reasons for the stalled move.
“The club confirmed us,” said Ritu.
“We had an offer, but it’s no longer possible due to financial reasons and politics. Their budget is too low.
“Of course, I felt bad because I was excited to play there. It would have been my first time playing in Europe."
When contacted, Tiverija’s team director Aleksandra Terziski refrained from calling the offer "rejected" or "over."
“Let’s say it’s postponed,” she told Dhaka Tribune.
“There isn’t enough time to process the visas. Additionally, my current budget doesn’t allow for additional costs,” Terziski explained regarding the withdrawal of the offer.
Despite the setback, Sabina and Ritu remain hopeful about future opportunities in Macedonia.
Terziski assured: “If there is an opportunity with us or another club in Europe, I will let them know.”