Cuba Mitchell’s eligibility process to represent Bangladesh in international football has taken a major step forward, with the birth registration, national identity card, and dual citizenship process for his grandparents now completed. According to sources close to the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), the next phase will involve securing a passport for Cuba’s mother — a step requiring biometric verification at the British Embassy, which both Cuba and his mother are expected to attend in the coming days.
The 21-year-old English-born footballer has made clear his desire to represent Bangladesh, following in the footsteps of players like Hamza Choudhury and Shamit Shome, who have expressed pride in their Bangladeshi roots. Mitchell, a versatile midfielder currently playing in England’s non-league circuit, has long had an eye on representing the South Asian nation, and his proactive role in completing the necessary paperwork has been met with encouragement from BFF officials.
With dual nationality nearly secured, Cuba could be available for selection as early as the next international window, pending FIFA clearance. Much like Hamza Choudhury — the Leicester City midfielder who confirmed his openness to playing for Bangladesh despite England youth caps — Mitchell represents a generation of diaspora talent that could bring much-needed depth and dynamism to the national side. Shamit Shome, the Canada international of Bangladeshi origin, has similarly expressed interest in contributing to the country’s football journey.
Mitchell’s case is being closely watched, as the BFF looks to build a more competitive squad by identifying and integrating overseas talent with Bangladeshi heritage. A technical committee source confirmed that “Mitchell has shown strong commitment and willingness to be part of Bangladesh’s footballing future. He’s been very active and cooperative with all the formalities.”
As the final steps of the paperwork near completion, hopes are high that Cuba Mitchell’s journey will culminate in a national team debut — a symbolic moment for the diaspora and a tangible boost for the men’s team. If all goes smoothly, his presence could mark the beginning of a broader shift towards embracing dual-nationality players who are willing to wear the red and green shirt with pride.