Shaheen removed from BFF committee after demanding Cabrera’s resignation

Sakhawat Hossain Bhuiyan Shaheen, a member of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) executive committee who publicly demanded the resignation of national team coach Javier Cabrera, has been relieved of his duties on the national team committee. On Friday (July 5), BFF President and National Team Committee Chairman Tabith Awal informed Shaheen of the decision through an official letter.

The letter did not specify the reason for Shaheen’s removal but clarified that he would continue to contribute to football development as an executive committee member, though he will no longer serve on the national team committee.

Shaheen had called for Cabrera’s resignation during a press conference on June 14, sparking widespread reactions both inside and outside the BFF. Many viewed his remarks as a breach of the federation’s Code of Conduct, creating a tense atmosphere within the organization.

The national team committee is a key BFF standing committee responsible for team formation strategies, evaluating coaches and officials, and planning matches and tournaments. Although the committee’s constitution stipulates seven members, Tabith Awal increased it to twelve after taking office. Following Shaheen’s removal, the committee currently has eleven members.

Javier Cabrera has coached the national team for over three and a half years, leading Bangladesh to the semifinals of the 2023 SAFF Championship. However, recent defeats against India and Singapore have intensified criticism of his performance, with additional pressure ahead of the upcoming match against Hong Kong.