Cabrera Responds to Criticism and Calls for Resignation

Dhaka, Bangladesh – Spanish head coach Javier Cabrera of the Bangladesh national football team has addressed criticism and calls for his resignation following the team’s home defeat against Singapore in the Asian Cup qualifiers on 10 June. Many in the football community blamed Cabrera for the loss. Executive member of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), Sakhawat Hossain Bhuiyan Shahin, had directly demanded his resignation, while recently another member, Said Hasan Canon, also criticised several of Cabrera’s decisions during the Singapore match.

Ahead of the September international window, the Bangladesh national team began camp on 13 August. After a week of preparation, Cabrera spoke to the media, where questions immediately focused on the Singapore defeat. Both football supporters, former players, and federation officials expressed frustration.

Cabrera responded: “I respect all opinions. We have held many meetings with various BFF management members. They have shared their perspectives, and I have shared mine. In some areas, we agree; in others, we differ. I welcome all opinions.”

During the September window, Bangladesh will play two friendly matches in Nepal, with nearly a month of preparation scheduled. However, domestic clubs are not getting sufficient pre-season practice opportunities.

BFF Senior Vice-President Imrul Hasan recently explained to the media:

“The domestic schedule was finalised considering that the coach did not want players to compete in other matches during the September window.”

When asked about this, Cabrera said:”I always set my plans before the season starts. Discussions happened months ago, and I do not wish to argue with Mr Imrul. I have great respect for him. Right now, our focus is on preparing for Nepal.”

Some in the football community have criticised the long preparation period for the friendlies. Cabrera clarified: “After the 10 June Singapore match, there were no international or domestic games scheduled. That is why the camp was called early, to keep players fully fit.”

Although Bashundhara Kings did not release ten of their players, Cabrera continued training from 15 August, with the remaining 13 players from other clubs participating. To enhance practice sessions, 2–3 additional players from other clubs, as well as age-based squad members, have been included. Furthermore, four players from the Chotton U-17 SAFF camp were also called to fill gaps in training.

Cabrera remains positive about the preparations: “We are satisfied and optimistic about our progress. This will be effective as we have enough time to prepare. While our immediate focus is Nepal, we are also preparing for the upcoming Asian Cup qualifiers against Hong Kong and India.”