Female Footballers Agree to Return to Practice under Coach Butler

Dhaka:The rebellion of 18 female footballers against Coach Peter Butler has finally come to an end. The players, who had earlier announced they would not attend practice if Butler remained as the coach, have now agreed to return to training under his leadership. This was confirmed by Mahfuzah Akhter, Chairperson of the Women’s Wing of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF).

In a press conference held today at the BFF office, Mahfuzah Akhter said, "I have been in regular discussions with the girls. Following today’s meeting, they have confirmed that they will return to practice."

However, Sabina Khatun and Rituparna are not yet ready to resume practice. They will also not be part of the Bangladesh Women's National Football Team's upcoming tour to the United Arab Emirates. Mahfuzah Akhter further stated that the rebellious footballers will take a short break before returning to training. "The camp will end on February 24, and the team will leave for the UAE on that day. However, the senior players (the 18 rebels) wish to take a break during that time. Afterward, they will return to the camp and resume practice," she explained.

Earlier, the head of the BFF Women’s Wing met with the rebellious players today. Several issues were discussed, and the players decided to withdraw their ultimatum.

Nevertheless, some matters are still pending with the 18 footballers. Mahfuzah explained, "The Women’s Wing, BFF president, senior vice president, coach, and players will sit together to clear up any misunderstandings. Unity must be maintained because they will have to practice together in the future."

The rebellion by the 18 footballers had lasted for more than two weeks. On January 30, Sabina Khatun raised a three-page written complaint in front of the BFF office against Coach Peter Butler, stating, "We are not willing to play under Butler. If he remains the coach, we will all retire together."

Following this, the BFF formed an investigation committee, and after completing the inquiry, the report was submitted. BFF President Tabith Awal also called on the players to return to training. Despite several rounds of meetings, the players were initially unwilling to change their decision. However, today, they decided to reverse their stance.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Women's National Football Team will play its first match against the UAE on February 26, followed by the second match on March 2. Sabina, Monica, and the rebellious players will not be part of the squad for these matches.