Bashundhara Kings, one of the most talked-about football clubs in Bangladesh, has once again found itself at the centre of controversy. On one hand, the reigning champions are reportedly reluctant to release players for the national team camp, and on the other, they are facing a FIFA investigation over unpaid dues to a former coach and fitness trainer.
Former Romanian head coach Valerio Tita and French fitness trainer Khalil Chakroun have claimed that Bashundhara Kings failed to pay them three months’ salary and bonuses. Tita further alleged that he had to pay for his own airfare. Armed with evidence, both have lodged formal complaints with FIFA. As per regulations, coaches and players are entitled to file a complaint with FIFA if a club does not honour financial obligations set out in the contract. That’s the route Tita and Chakroun have taken.
FIFA is now investigating the matter and will reach a final decision after hearing both sides. The club has been given a deadline of 27 August to submit its explanation. Speaking to Bangladeshi media outlet Prothom Alo, Tita said, “The complaint is currently under investigation. My lawyer has informed me that FIFA has asked the club to respond to our claims by 27 August.”
According to FIFA rules, if the allegations are proven, the club must pay the dues within a set timeframe. Failure to do so could result in serious sanctions by world football’s governing body, including a transfer ban, points deduction, or even relegation from the league. Conversely, if Bashundhara Kings can provide sufficient evidence to refute the claims, the case will be dismissed.
This off-field turmoil comes amid tensions between the club and the national team setup. Bangladesh is scheduled to play two friendlies against Nepal on 6 and 9 September. National team coach Javier Cabrera had called for an early camp to prepare for the matches, but Bashundhara Kings have yet to release their ten players, forcing the coach to begin preparations with only 14 players.
An emergency meeting was held by the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), but Bashundhara Kings President Imrul Hassan did not attend. As a result, no definitive resolution was reached, though the federation has decided to issue a formal letter to the club. Members of the national team’s management committee remain hopeful that the issue will be resolved and the players will join the camp. However, past incidents suggest that Bashundhara Kings have often been reluctant to release players for youth and U-23 national teams, raising concerns once again.