Sunday, 5th April 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 29th July 2025, 12:52 PM
In a surprising transfer on the final day of registration for the AFC Challenge League, five-time Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) champions Bashundhara Kings have secured the signing of Cuba Mitchell, a promising midfielder from England’s Sunderland U21 team. Club president Imrul Hassan confirmed the signing on Monday, 28 July.
Player Profile: Cuba Mitchell
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Cuba Mitchell |
| Age | 19 |
| Position | Midfielder |
| Previous Club | Sunderland U21 (formerly Sunderland U18) |
| Appearances (U18) | 25 matches |
| Nationality | Bangladeshi (obtained passport in June 2025) |
| Contract Duration | 3 seasons with Bashundhara Kings |
The acquisition of Mitchell reflects the club’s intention to inject youthful energy into their midfield. The teenager, who has recently received his Bangladeshi passport, is now awaiting FIFA’s Player Status Committee approval, a requirement before he can represent the Bangladesh national team.
Coaching Overhaul Ahead of New Season
In addition to strengthening the squad, Bashundhara Kings have also made a major change in the coaching department. For the upcoming 2025–26 season, they have appointed Sérgio Farias, a seasoned Brazilian coach, to lead the team.
Coach Profile: Sérgio Farias
| Attribute | Details |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Age | 58 |
| Notable Past Roles | Head Coach, Brazil U17 team |
| International Experience | South Korea, China, Thailand, Kuwait |
| Last Club | Kazma Sporting Club, Kuwait Premier League (2023) |
Farias brings decades of managerial experience and has worked across Asia, managing clubs with diverse tactical backgrounds. His hiring signals a strategic shift at Bashundhara Kings following a mixed season under former Romanian manager Valeriu Tița
Club Trajectory and Outlook
Since joining the Bangladesh Premier League in 2018, Bashundhara Kings have enjoyed immense domestic success. Under Spanish coach Óscar Bruzón, they dominated for five seasons. Last season, however, under Valeriu Tița, while they clinched the Federation Cup and Challenge Cup, they failed to retain the league title.
With the dual appointment of Cuba Mitchell and Sérgio Farias, the Kings are clearly aiming for a strong resurgence in the coming season.
“This is part of our vision to rebuild and re-energise the squad. We believe Mitchell and Farias will be central to our success,” – Imrul Hassan, President, Bashundhara Kings.
The signings reflect Bashundhara Kings’ ambition to maintain their status as one of South Asia’s premier football clubs and potentially elevate their presence on the continental stage through the AFC Challenge League
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