Fahamedul's exclusion sparks protests from Bangladesh football fans

Bangladesh is preparing vigorously for their match against India on 25 March in the Asian Cup qualifiers in Shillong. The team has been undergoing intense preparation, including a conditioning camp in Saudi Arabia, which began on 5 March.

Although Italy-based footballer Fahamedul Islam was called up for the camp, he ultimately didn't make it into the final squad. While the rest of the team returned to the country this morning (Tuesday), Fahamedul has gone back to Italy.

The news of Fahamidul's return to Italy has sparked outrage among some of Bangladesh's football fans. Football supporters, led by the group "Bangladesh Football Ultras," have announced protests, marches, and a sit-in rally.

On Tuesday afternoon, around a hundred supporters gathered in front of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) building. The angry fans chanted slogans such as "Down with the syndicate, save football!" and "Tell everyone, bury the syndicate!" Placards reading "Free the syndicate" and "Bring back Fahamidul" were also seen in the crowd.

After Iftar, the protesters marched from the BFF building towards the Bangladesh team hotel. They chanted slogans similar to the July movement, such as "Who are you, who am I, Fahamidul! Fahamidul!" and "Break the black hand of the syndicate!" Due to security reasons, they could not stay in front of the hotel for long. They later continued their protest and gathered in front of Dhaka University's Raju Memorial.

The Bangladesh team management has faced questions regarding why Fahamidul, who played in Italy's fourth division, is not included in the final squad for the match against India. Coach Javier Cabrera had initially included him in his plans, but team manager Amer Khan explained that Fahamedul would not be going to India due to the coach's changed strategy. Amer said, "We went to Saudi Arabia with 28 players, but the squad for the India match will be 23. As far as I know, the coach has a different plan for the match against India, and that's why Fahamedul isn't going."

Fahamedul struggled to deliver the desired performance during training and practice matches, despite being played in various positions. Coach Cabrera had assigned him the task of playing on the wing, but Fahamedul could not meet the expectations, which ultimately led to his exclusion. Cabrera clarified the decision, saying, "Fahamedul didn't come to Dhaka. He was with us in Saudi Arabia for a week. He's a talented player but needs more time. The training in Saudi Arabia was crucial for the team, and although he performed well, other players are currently more prepared. He needs more time."