Footballers Propose ‘2+2’ Compromise for SAFF Quota

Footballers in Bangladesh have revised their stance regarding the controversial South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) quota system. Following a meeting with officials from the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), players have transitioned from demanding a total abolition of the quota to proposing a new “2+2” formula. This development aims to balance the interests of local athletes with the financial and structural requirements of the clubs.

Background of the Dispute

On 15 April, a group of footballers submitted a formal letter to the BFF outlining six specific demands, the most prominent being the cancellation of the SAFF quota. Under the current regulations for the ongoing season, clubs in the Bangladesh Premier League are permitted to register five players from the SAFF region as “local” players. Additionally, teams can recruit three players under the standard foreign player quota.

The core of the disagreement lies in the displacement of domestic talent. Local players argue that treating five regional foreigners as locals significantly reduces playing time for homegrown athletes. Conversely, clubs favour the current system because players from neighbouring SAFF nations often command lower salaries compared to high-ranking domestic players, making them a cost-effective alternative for squad depth.

The New ‘2+2’ Proposal

During a meeting at the BFF House, a delegation of players led by former national team captain Mamunul Islam presented a revised proposal. Instead of the current “5+3” arrangement, the players suggested a restructured limit:

• Two players under the SAFF quota.

• Two players under the standard foreign quota.

This proposal seeks to maintain regional cooperation while ensuring more slots remain available for local Bangladeshi talent.

Comparison of Player Quota Structures

Perspectives from the Meeting

Mamunul Islam clarified that the revised demand considers the broader diplomatic and sporting context of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). He stated that because SAFF regulations allow players from member nations to play as locals in each other’s leagues, Bangladesh must respect these reciprocal relations.

“We want the interests of both the clubs and the players to be protected,” Mamunul explained. He noted that while the initial demand was for a total ban, the new proposal is a more balanced approach that the Federation should consider.

Administrative Response

The meeting was attended by 22 out of the 25 invited footballers, including prominent figures such as Mehedi Mithu (Mohammedan SC), Ibrahim and Mitul Marma (Abahani Ltd), and Mahmudul Hasan (Rahmatganj MFS). Unlike the previous petition filed under the Players’ Welfare Association letterhead, this new proposal was submitted on plain paper, bearing the signatures of 20 players.

Amirul Islam, Chairman of the BFF Media Committee, termed the discussion “fruitful” and noted the positive shift in the players’ position. The proposal will now be forwarded to the BFF President and tabled for a final decision during the next Executive Committee meeting.