Exclusive: Hamza Choudhury's Arrival Ignites a New Era for Bangladesh Football

Bangladeshi-origin footballer Hamza Dewan Chowdhury has become the centre of attention since arriving in Bangladesh on March 17 to join the national team for the AFC Asian Cup 2025 qualifiers against India, scheduled for March 25.

During his three-day stay, Hamza trained with the Bangladesh national team at Bashundhara Sports City after spending some quality time with family members in his hometown of Sylhet. 

His presence sparked widespread excitement, continuing even as the team moved to India for final preparations.

The 27-year-old midfielder, currently playing for EFL Championship club Sheffield United on loan from Premier League side Leicester City, is widely regarded as a beacon of hope for Bangladesh football — a sport that has long been overshadowed by cricket in the country.

From the moment he landed, the excitement was palpable. Fans celebrated not just the arrival of a top-tier footballer but the revival of passion for the sport itself. The frenzy reached a fever pitch when Hamza, speaking in the Sylheti dialect, confidently declared, “Amra win khormu against India” (We will beat India). The phrase quickly went viral on social media, cementing his status as a fan favorite.

Whether that bold statement becomes reality remains to be seen when Bangladesh faces India in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers’ final round first-leg match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. 

Bangladesh aims to break a 22-year winless streak against India — a daunting task — but one thing is clear: Hamza’s arrival has ushered in a new era of optimism for Bangladesh football.

A PREMIER LEAGUE BOOST FOR BANGLADESH

Bangladesh skipper Jamal Bhuiyan believes Hamza’s experience and skill set are elevating the team to new heights.

“I think Hamza brings quality, power, and another level to the team. His level is above all of us, and there’s so much we can learn from him. He’s played in the best league for years. We’re very thankful to have him,” Jamal told SportsBoom.com. 

“His arrival is a huge boost. He’s a Premier League player who’s competed against the best in the world. Having someone like him in Bangladesh is unique. It’s already increasing football’s popularity here, and that’s only going to continue,” he added.

ADAPTING TO BANGLADESH FOOTBALL CULTURE

There were initial doubts about whether Hamza could adapt to Bangladesh’s footballing culture, given the differences in tempo and style. However, Jamal quickly dismissed those concerns.

“Hamza was only here for a few days, but I can say he’s adapted well. He’s humble, hardworking, and fits into our group perfectly. He’s built a great rapport with everyone, understands the team’s humor, and is approachable. So far, he’s been brilliant,” Jamal said.

Hamza’s camaraderie with his new teammates was evident during training sessions, where his playful, easy-going personality blended seamlessly with the squad. Despite his high-profile background, he remained down-to-earth, even joining in light-hearted banter off the field.

KEY WEAPON AGAINST INDIA

Hamza’s impact won’t be judged by a single performance against India, but Jamal remains confident that his skill set could prove decisive.

“I think India will respect Hamza because they know what kind of player he is. His passes and energy can make a huge difference for us. I’m a hundred percent sure of that,” Jamal concluded.

As Bangladesh gears up for the crucial qualifier, the excitement surrounding Hamza Chowdhury represents more than just hope for a victory. It symbolizes a renewed belief in the nation’s footballing potential — with Hamza leading the charge. 

The midfielder’s journey from the Premier League to Bangladesh’s national team is more than a story of talent and determination — it’s a reminder that football in Bangladesh still has the power to unite, inspire, and dream.