Alfaz apologizes amid efforts to bring back Fahamidul

Bangladesh has announced its preliminary squad for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup match against India on March 25. However, Italian Serie D player of Bangladeshi origin, Fahamidul Islam, has been left out of the squad. His exclusion has sparked heated discussions within the country's football community.

The Italy-based forward had joined the national team’s training camp in Saudi Arabia but returned to Italy before its conclusion. Head coach Javier Cabrera explained that Fahamidul struggled to adapt to the team and needed more time. However, football fans are campaigning for his return, and it is reported that the sports advisor is also making efforts to bring him back.

Meanwhile, former national team player Alfaz Ahmed has landed in controversy for his remarks that bringing in expatriate footballers to the national team could harm local players. Currently serving as the coach of Mohammedan Sporting Club, Alfaz claimed on Facebook that he has been receiving threats over his comments.

Alfaz’s statement was seen as a reference to Fahamidul. However, some insiders claim that the young Italian-born talent was deliberately excluded despite performing well in the training camp. Fahamidul reportedly demonstrated excellent speed, dribbling skills, and even scored a hat-trick in a practice match. Critics argue that he was dropped to make room for certain players backed by a powerful syndicate.

One of these players, Fahim, plays in the same position but has been in poor form. Yet, he was included in the national squad due to his association with Bashundhara Kings. There are also claims that multiple players who spent most of the season on the bench for Bashundhara Kings have been selected for the national team due to the club’s influence within the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF).

Reports indicate that Sports Advisor Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan is set to meet BFF President Tabith Awal to discuss Fahamidul’s situation.

On the other hand, Alfaz Ahmed has issued an apology on Facebook, stating, “In response to various interview questions over the past few days, I shared my opinions in the best interest of our football. In a free country, we all have the right to express our views. I respect everyone’s opinions, even if my statements were not accepted by all. Unfortunately, my words were not presented accurately.”

He further wrote, “The national football federation does not take decisions based on my personal opinions, nor is the national team formed according to my statements. I may not have contributed significantly to the country’s football, but I do hold hopes for its future. Like all of you, I love our football and want to see the country achieve great honors. If Fahamidul can contribute to that success, I stand with you all.

However, due to this issue, I and my family are facing threats and harassment. I urge everyone to refrain from personal attacks. If my words have hurt or affected anyone, I sincerely apologize.”