Swapan replaces Rupu as Abahani Manager
Finally free from the FIFA ban, officials of Dhaka Abahani limited have begun the process of assembling its squad for the new season. Manager Satyajit Das Rupu has been removed from his post.
The new Manager is Shahid Hossain Swapan, a former Abahani footballer. Maruful Haque has once again been entrusted with the responsibility of Head Coach.
Both the Coach and the Manager have stated that they were informed of their responsibilities verbally; neither has received a formal letter yet. However, both have already started working.
Total of three bans on Abahani. Two of them were already lifted. The last ban was also lifted on Monday.
Despite the lifting of the ban, Abahani now facing a player shortage while trying to assemble its squad.. Mohammedan have signed seven local players from Bashundhara Kings; while Abahani could also recruit players from the Kings, they lack the necessary budget. Consequently, the club is unable to pursue any big-name signings.
“The club have asked me for a list of players. I have received it and am now speaking with the players. Whoever I approach from other clubs says they have already signed elsewhere. It is proving difficult to secure players,” said Coach Maruful Haque.
“Murad, Yasin Khan, Sabuj, Kamrul are on the list for defense. Papan Singh, Shakeel in the midfield. Al Amin, Mirajul, Ibrahim up top. Morsalin-Mitul are also on the list.
However, I have not spoken to these two yet. I hope I will. Let them speak to the officials. My job is to select the players.”
Several players from the previous squad have also left Abahani. Star striker Souleymane Diabate has returned to Mohammedan. Defenders Sushanta Tripura and Alamgir Molla have left Abahani to join Bashundhara Kings, while striker Enamul Gazi has moved to Dhaka City Club.
The club’s new Manager, Shahid Hossain Swapan, played for Abahani from 1990 to 1996. He moved to Muktijoddha in 1997.
Since retiring as a player, the former midfielder had not held any role at Abahani; this marks the first time he is set to take on such a responsibility.
