Bashundhara Kings set to return as uncertainty fades

Bashundhara Kings are set to take part in the upcoming Bangladesh Football League (BFL) after overcoming a major hurdle surrounding FIFA sanctions and club licensing.

The club had been facing 12 FIFA sanctions and was required to pay a substantial amount in compensation to have them lifted. There were also concerns over completing the club licensing process in time.

However, Bashundhara Kings president Imrul Hassan has now assured that the club will be free of the sanctions within the next few days.

“We are completing the process for Bashundhara. Hopefully, we will be free from the sanctions within the next two or three days. Kings will be in the transfer window,” Imrul said.

The news brought relief to senior players, including Topu Barman, Rakib Hossain and Mohammad Ridoy, who had remained hopeful despite the uncertainty.

“Honestly, like everyone else, I was worried too. But I also had faith in the Kings management. Finally, today I am 100% certain about Kings forming as a team. In fact, the football league cannot be imagined without Bashundhara Kings,” Topu said.

Kings have won six of the last seven league titles and remain one of the country's most professionally run clubs. Although uncertainty over their participation led some players to leave, the club has retained several key names, including Rakib, Topu, Ridoy, Bishwanath Ghosh, goalkeeper Mehedi Hasan Srabon and Sohel Rana.

The club are also working to sign more notable players and are in contact with new foreign recruits.

Abahani Limited are also waiting to have their sanctions lifted, while Fakirerpool Young Men's could make it a 13-team league if they resolve their issues.

Kings are expected to begin preparations for the new season next week, with Topu confirming that the players will return to training by then.