The search for Bangladesh’s next national football team head coach has entered its final stretch, with the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) narrowing a field of approximately 300 applicants down to a shortlist of 22 candidates. The names will be formally presented at a meeting of the National Team Management Committee on Monday, after which direct discussions with candidates will begin.
BFF executive committee member and national team committee member Iqbal Hossain confirmed the development to the media, adding that 14 candidates have also been shortlisted for the goalkeeping coach position.
The shortlist reflects the breadth of interest in the role, drawing candidates from across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas and, notably, Brazil and Argentina, two countries from which BFF has not appointed a head coach in over a decade. Iqbal confirmed their inclusion, saying the selection committee focused heavily on proven experience at national team level.
“We have included those who we felt have experience working with national teams,” he said. “Having experience in Asia gives an added advantage. However, there are many coaches on the list from outside Asia as well, from Africa, Europe, America, Brazil and Argentina.”
The selection criteria were applied strictly from the outset. Possession of a UEFA Pro Licence was treated as a non-negotiable requirement, with any applicant lacking it eliminated immediately. Beyond that, the committee assessed performance records, current workplace, technical ability and language skills.
“We gave the highest importance to the Pro Licence. Those who did not have it were excluded at the outset. Besides that, we reviewed the coaches’ experience, technical ability and where they are currently working,” Iqbal said.
In terms of age, the committee targeted candidates between 40 and 60, though some flexibility was applied for exceptional candidates. “We have also included some good coaches aged 63 to 65. Here, experience and performance were given more importance than age,” Iqbal said.
One of the key concerns surrounding the appointment has been BFF’s financial capacity to attract a high-calibre coach. Iqbal was candid on the subject, making clear that quality will come at a price and that the government has indicated its willingness to help bridge any gap.
“The minister has assured us of full support. If we want a good coach, we must be ready to spend good money,” he said. “A good coach can succeed anywhere. His ability will show in one way or another.”
No direct contact has yet been made with any of the 22 shortlisted candidates. Following tomorrow’s committee meeting, the list will be reviewed and gradually reduced to three or four final names, at which point the views of the players themselves may also be sought.
“When the list is reduced to three or four names, players’ opinions may be considered,” Iqbal said.
The vacancy arose following the departure of former head coach Javier Cabrera, whose tenure of more than four years came to an end in April. BFF will be hoping to conclude the appointment process swiftly and have a new coach in place ahead of upcoming international commitments.
