Ten clubs demand uninterrupted football league, Fed Cup

Ten Bangladesh Football League clubs demanded an uninterrupted football league and Federation Cup to Bangladesh Football Federation on Tuesday. The clubs submitted a joint six-point proposal and observations to BFF president Tabith Awal. However, holders Bashundhara Kings, Fortis FC and Bangladesh Police FC did not sign the application. The Bangladesh Football Federation has tentatively scheduled the new season to begin on September 18, but the clubs oppose starting without players, who are currently in the national camp. Around 28 players from domestic clubs are training under German-American coach Thomas Dooley for the FIFA ASEAN Cup in Indonesia, which runs from September 21 to October 6. 'If the league and Federation Cup interrupted again and again due to national team's interest, what measure the BFF will take to compensate the clubs?' the clubs questioned BFF in their statement. They said repeated breaks in the domestic calendar caused financial losses while also affecting players' physical fitness, match rhythm and mental preparation. The domestic calendar could face another disruption soon after, with the SAFF Championship scheduled in Dhaka from November 4 to 17. The clubs have also sought financial compensation from the BFF for maintaining training camps and paying player salaries during league suspensions. Their other demands include participation money, representation of clubs on the Professional Football League Committee, matches at the National Stadium and a more balanced league calendar.