Newly-apponted Bangladesh head coach Thomas Dooley has announced his first final squad since taking charge, selecting 23 players for the upcoming FIFA international friendly against San Marino on June 5.
The match will mark Dooley's debut on the Bangladesh bench and Bangladesh's first-ever away fixture against a European nation, making it a landmark occasion for the men in red and green.
After overseeing a four-day residential training camp in Dhaka, the German-American tactician finalized the squad that will travel to San Marino as Bangladesh begin a new chapter under the former United States international.
One of the key talking points is the return of goalkeeper Anisur Rahman Zico, who earns a recall after around 19 months out of the national team. His last appearance came in a friendly against Afghanistan in September 2024.
Defender Isha Faisal and forward Rafiqul Islam have also returned to the national fold, while captain Jamal Bhuiyan continues to lead a squad blending experience with emerging talent.
Several members of the preliminary 30-man squad were left out of the final selection, including Rahamat Mia, Abdullah Omar, Shakil Hossain, Monjurul Rahman, Ibrahim, Mirajul Islam and Minhajul Karim Swadhin.
Experienced campaigners such as Tariq Raihan Kazi, Topu Barman and Mitul Marma have retained their places, while English Championship midfielder Hamza Dewan Choudhury and Canada-based Shamit Shome are expected to play influential roles.
The San Marino encounter is being viewed as the first significant test of Dooley's tenure as Bangladesh seek to build momentum ahead of future international assignments.
Squad
Goalkeepers: Mitul Marma, Sujon Hossain, Anisur Rahman Zico.
Defenders: Tariq Raihan Kazi, Topu Barman, Shakil Ahad Topu, Bishwanath Ghosh, Saad Uddin, Zayan Ahmed, Taj Uddin, Isha Faisal.
Midfielders: Jamal Bhuiyan, Sohel Rana, Sohel Rana Jr., Hridoy, Hamza Dewan Choudhury, Shamit Shome, Sheikh Morsalin, Syed Kazem Kirmani Shah.
Forwards: Fahmidul Islam, Shahriar Emon, Faisal Ahmed Fahim, Rafiqul Islam.
