Players Flock to Follow Hamza’s Trail: Bangladesh Football Surge Continues

Dhaka, April 3 – Could we witness an increase in foreign-born footballers willing to play for Bangladesh’s national team in upcoming times? This query is gaining traction within the country’s football community following the example set by English League player Hamza Choudhury.

The recent appearance of Premier League player Hamza representing Bangladesh has ignited enthusiasm amongst overseas-based footballers who aspire to play for their country’s squad.

The Bangladesh soccer squad returned to their homeland from India on Wednesday following their participation in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.

The vice president of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), Fahad Karim, stated that 32 players with Bengali heritage from 13 different nations have officially shown their desire to represent Bangladesh’s team.

Some of the prominent individuals include England-based Karim Hassan Smith, Ilman Matin, and Ashiqur Rahman; France’s Farhan Mahmud; Canada’s Nabid Ahmed; and US-based Amir Sami.

A notable player is Canadian midfielder Samit Som, who has represented both Canada’s junior and main squads. The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) wishes to add him to their national side, subject to approval from FIFA.

Hamza leaves to rejoin his EPL club

To make the selection process more efficient, the BFF will conduct a three-day trial in Dhaka beginning June 25, with a focus on bolstering their younger teams.

The initiative receives support from Sakib Mahmud, a Denmark-based volunteer who has assisted in identifying suitable players, with much of this work done via social media platforms.

Although five players have already reached Bangladesh to participate in youth team trials, Samit is the sole individual still under consideration for the senior squad.

The BFF aims to finalize his addition before the June 10 Asian Cup qualifier against Singapore in Dhaka.