Hamza bids farewell but assures fans: ‘I'll be back in June’

Hamza Choudhury's 10-day visit to Bangladesh comes to an end today as he departs for England to rejoin Sheffield United. His arrival on 17 March sparked excitement among Bangladeshi football fans, which peaked when he made his international debut in a hard-fought goalless draw against India in an Asian Cup qualifier in Shillong last Tuesday.

Following the match, Hamza returned to Bangladesh with the rest of the squad yesterday morning, travelling via Guwahati and Kolkata. However, his stay was brief, as he boarded a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight this morning. His journey back to England began with a domestic flight from Dhaka to Sylhet at 9:45 am, before continuing on to Manchester at 11:45 am.

Reflecting on his time with the national team, Hamza expressed his emotions in a video shared by the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) on its official Facebook page. "I can't explain how much this meant to me. Thank you. In Sha Allah, I will be back in June. Make dua for my good health," he said.

His short spell in Bangladesh was met with great enthusiasm. He was given a grand welcome in his home district of Habiganj on 17 and 18 March, while his training sessions in Dhaka also drew eager crowds. His composed yet commanding presence against India earned admiration, not just for his footballing ability but also for his humility and professionalism.

Hamza's swift return to England is necessary as Sheffield United prepare for a crucial match against Coventry in the early hours of 28 March. With the club sitting second in the Championship, level on points with leaders Leeds United but behind on goal difference, every match is vital. Coventry, currently fifth, pose a tough challenge, making Hamza's availability important.

Bangladeshi fans will not have to wait long to see him back in action for the national team. He is expected to return on 10 June for Bangladesh's home fixture against Singapore in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.