Jamal urges high-level coach as Cabrera’s contract nears end

Bangladesh national football team captain Jamal Bhuyan inaugurated a local football tournament at Manikganj on Saturday. The event drew a large crowd of enthusiastic fans from across the district, turning the village ground into a lively football festival. Eight teams from three districts are competing, showcasing local talent and promoting football at the grassroots level.

Speaking after the opening match, Jamal reflected on the excitement surrounding football in rural areas: “It’s amazing to see so many people in a village field cheering for football. It’s encouraging for the sport and for young players dreaming to go professional.”

Jamal also discussed the possibility of Bangladesh hosting the men’s SAFF Championship after eight years, saying, "If SAFF comes to Bangladesh - whether Dhaka, Chittagong, or Sylhet - it will be great for our people and also a motivation for the players. But I can’t confirm yet if it will happen. Bangladesh football is on a positive path now. Last year, every match was sold out. So if SAFF happens here, I think it’s going to be good for Bangladesh. And if we can win the trophy, even better - it will also be a motivation."

Looking ahead to the AFC Asian Cup qualifier last match against Singapore in March, Jamal emphasised the need for preparation, "A friendly match before Singapore would be good. There’s a long gap since our last game in November. Playing beforehand will help the team regain rhythm, improve rankings, and keep us ahead of India. Being back in camp with all the players is important. A long gap affects team chemistry, so we need to take this opportunity to reconnect and prepare."

Bangladesh’s current national football team head coach, Spanish tactician Javier Cabrera has faced criticism since last March following a draw against India. His contract with the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) is set to expire this March. Captain Jamal Bhuyan expressed the team’s desire for a high-level coach to lead Bangladesh to greater heights, stating, "We want a high-level coach to lead the team forward, but ultimately the decision is up to the federation."