Bangladesh Football Federation’s (BFF) move to appoint Chris Coleman as national team head coach has hit a major barrier over financial demands from the coach’s agent.
Youth and Sports State Minister Aminul Haque said on Sunday that BFF is still struggling to reach an agreement with Coleman’s representative despite being ready to support the federation’s plan.
Speaking at the National Stadium after opening the 49th National Athletics Championship, Aminul said, “We are mentally prepared to bring in the person (Coleman) we have targeted. We are ready to provide the full support the federation has asked for regarding him. But I learned from BFF that there is still no understanding with his agent.”
Bangladesh Football Federation wants to appoint former Wales coach Chris Coleman on a two-year contract.
But Coleman’s agent has reportedly demanded several lakh taka, creating a major financial challenge for the federation.
This agent-related issue has now become the biggest obstacle in finalizing the deal.
Aminul admitted that uncertainty remains. He said, “We have to wait until the understanding with the agent is complete. The real question is whether we will finally get Coleman.”
The delay comes at a crucial time for Bangladesh football. Bangladesh will play San Marino in an international friendly on June 5, leaving only around three weeks before the match.
That has increased pressure on BFF to appoint a head coach as soon as possible. Despite the setback, the Sports State Minister said BFF still remains hopeful.
He said, “We are still positive about Coleman. But if for any reason Coleman does not happen, I have asked them to go for the next person on the list.” BFF president Tabith Awal returned from Thailand on Saturday night.
He had planned to brief the media on Sunday, but with the coaching issue still unresolved, that discussion has now been moved to Monday.
Coleman and other possible candidates are from Europe, so BFF is waiting for further communication due to the time difference.
A full update on the national team coach situation is now expected on Monday.
