Hamza Choudhury, paid a courtesy visit to Asif Mahmud, adviser to the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, on Wednesday at the Nagar Bhaban in Dhaka.
At the same time, Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) President Tabith Awal sat down with the sports adviser to discuss the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh football.
Expressing his enthusiasm for Bangladesh football, Hamza Choudhury said: "I am overwhelmed by the love of the people of Bangladesh. I will do my best to take the country’s football forward."
Acknowledging Hamza’s inclusion as a promising development for the national team, the adviser said: "A player like Hamza will put pressure on the opponents."
During the meeting, Asif and the BFF President discussed the ongoing crisis ahead of Bangladesh’s participation in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers. Addressing complaints raised by supporters, Tabith Awal said: "There is no room for syndicates in the football federation. Everyone will earn their place based on merit. If there is any indication of unfair practices, the federation will take action."
Tabith further clarified: "This so-called crisis is not a crisis at all. We have not excluded Fahmidul. He is a talented player, but we wanted to give him more time. Bangladesh has a home match in June, and we may see him on the field soon. I urge the fans not to be disappointed."
Regarding allegations of favoritism and syndicates in player selection, Asif emphasized: "There is no room for denying deserving players in the interest of the country. BFF must ensure that no player falls victim to nepotism or syndication in the selection process. If any corruption is proven, the government will take action against those involved."
