The transfer window for the Bangladesh Premier League officially closed at 11:59 PM on 14 August. Until the final moments, clubs were actively engaged in player transfers, creating a noticeable buzz. On paper, traditional giants Dhaka Abahani and reigning powerhouse Bashundhara Kings have built the most balanced and formidable squads for the upcoming season. In contrast, defending champions Mohammedan SC have struggled to assemble a team of expected quality due to organisational shortcomings.
Mohammedan’s fortunes took a significant blow with the departure of three key foreign players. Their captain Souleymane Diabate has joined Abahani, while Emmanuel Sunday and Tony have signed for Bashundhara Kings. While these transfers have added depth and dynamism to the squads of Abahani and Kings, Mohammedan have lost the core pillars behind their previous season’s success. Kings’ talented midfielder Sheikh Morsalin will now feature for Abahani, who have also secured rising striker Al-Amin from Police FC. Meanwhile, Kings have strengthened their right flank with the signing of speedy and powerful right-back Taj Uddin.
National team captain Jamal Bhuiyan will continue to play for Brothers Union. However, Brothers have caused quite a stir this season by capitalising on a new regulation introduced by the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF). According to the new rule, players from SAARC countries can now be registered as local players in the league. Taking advantage of this, Brothers have signed four Nepalese stars: Anjan Bista, Yogesh Gurung, Arik Bista, and Sanish Shrestha. As a result, a total of eight Nepalese players will feature in this season’s league — an unprecedented number in the history of the Bangladesh Premier League. While the top-tier clubs have shown little interest in players from SAARC nations, smaller-budget clubs have made the most of this opportunity.
One of the most talked-about stories during the transfer window was the uncertainty surrounding Fakirerpool Youngmen’s Club. The club had been under a FIFA-imposed ban, but after clearing their dues to an Uzbek footballer, they served their suspension and managed to complete their transfers in time.
There had also been rumours of Mohammedan showing interest in U-23 national team’s diaspora footballer Kasper Haque. However, Mohammedan Sporting Club’s Event and Operations Manager, SMA Kahar Siddiqui, completely dismissed the speculation. In his words:
“There were never any discussions with Kasper. These rumours are spread by those who do not wish well for Mohammedan. The club never goes after big names. We fight with the best players we can afford. Our players have the hunger and the drive to give their all for the team.”
He further added, “Our supporters always stand by us, and even if we are not the strongest team on paper, we can still deliver results. Dhaka Abahani and Bashundhara Kings have built strong squads, but we focus on ourselves. We are entering the season with the goal of winning the title.”
While the balance of power may appear to tilt towards the bigger clubs, the transfer window also suggests that mid-tier teams have not been sitting idle. With sound planning, timely decisions, and players’ strong mentality, this season of the Premier League promises to be an exciting and fiercely competitive one.