BFF extends club licensing deadline by four days

The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) has extended the club licensing deadline for defending champions Bashundhara Kings until September 1, after the club failed to complete the process by Friday’s deadline because of outstanding FIFA registration bans.

The domestic transfer window closes on September 3, leaving clubs only a few days to complete player registrations for the new season.

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A BFF member confirmed the matter to The Daily Star. Kings currently have two FIFA-imposed registration ban, having so far lifted a total of 12 bans. The bans are expected to be lifted after the completion of the formal process as the club has, according to an insider, cleared dues for all suspensions.

The BFF has therefore given Kings four additional days to complete their licensing formalities, the federation source confirmed.

However, the transfer window will not be extended from September 3, he informed.

Meanwhile, Fakirerpool Young Men’s Club, who were relegated last season, have been allowed by the BFF to continue in the top flight. They are currently under two FIFA registration bans and are working to resolve both cases.

The club has reached agreements with the two players involved, but has yet to provide the federation with bank documents confirming payment, it has been learnt.

Meanwhile, Abahani have cleared their registration ban and are completing their squad for the new season. Despite financial difficulties, the traditional giants have continued to recruit foreign players, including Michael Babatunde, a Nigerian who featured at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.