Tariq Kazi joins Bhutan champions Paro FC

Bangladesh national team defender Tariq Kazi has joined reigning Bhutan Premier League champions Paro FC, marking a new chapter in his career.

The 25-year-old centre-back had been without a club since leaving Bashundhara Kings in October last year after a five-year stint. Kazi parted ways with the Bangladesh giants over unpaid wages.

Paro FC confirmed his arrival as the defender took part in his first training session with the team on Monday, with the Bhutanese club sharing images of the session on their social media platforms.

“From Finland to the fortress of Paro – Tariq Kazi has arrived”, stated Paro FC’s social media post, further describing the Finland-born footballer as “a defender built with experience, discipline, and leadership.”

Kazi, a key figure in Bangladesh’s defence in recent years, is expected to strengthen Paro’s backline as they aim to maintain domestic dominance and compete in continental competitions, including the AFC Challenge League.

The upcoming Bhutan Premier League season is scheduled to kick off on May 2.

Bangladesh women's team players have already made a mark in Bhutanese football, having represented Bhutanese clubs in domestic and international football in a large number. However, this is the first time a Bangladeshi male footballer will don a Bhutanese club jersey.