Hamza today changed his country allegiance to Bangladesh 🇧🇩 pic.twitter.com/tjGO7YYWQj
— Leicester City (@LCFC) December 19, 2024
Former England U21 international Hamza Choudhury has officially moved to Bangladesh. The 27-year-old Leicester City midfielder is set to make history as the first Premier League player to represent the Bengal Tigers, who are ranked 185th in the world.
Choudhury was born in Loughborough, England, but his roots go back to his mother’s native Bangladesh. He made seven appearances for England youth internationals, but knew a chance to play for the Three Lions was out of the question.
FIFA Paves the Way
The Bangladesh Football Federation has come out with big news confirming Choudhury’s eligibility. FIFA’s Player Status Committee gave the green light to the switch under rules that allow players to change their national team if they have played three or fewer senior matches before turning 21.
“I was working on it”
speaking athleticChoudhury opened up about his decision.
“I always had in my mind that I should represent Bangladesh and its people. The fans there were incredibly supportive. Every day I get messages asking me to play for the Bangladesh national team. “It feels like the right move not only for me but to shine a light on Bangladesh in the world of football.”
The midfielder also expressed hope that his presence will inspire future players and bring much-needed exposure to the country on the international stage.
A career full of twists and turns
Choudhury made his debut for Leicester City in 2017. Apart from a season-long loan spell at Watford, he has been a loyal servant of the Foxes. Despite Leicester’s recent struggles – they are currently 17th in the Premier League under Ruud van Nistelrooy – Choudhury remains focused.
He played in the club’s 4-0 loss to Newcastle last weekend but is aiming to help Leicester escape the relegation zone. Next, they face 19th-placed Wolves in what could be an important game.
Ahead of his Bangladesh debut
Bangladesh will face India as part of the Asia Cup qualifiers in March. If all goes as planned, Choudhury will don the red and green jersey for the first time. Bengal Tigers hope his experience and skills will breathe new life into a team that has struggled in recent World Cup qualifiers.
Choudhury’s move mirrors that of other British-born players who have embraced their heritage on the international stage. Aston Villa’s Matty Cash represents Poland, Michail Antonio represents Jamaica and Demarai Gray also represents Jamaica.
With this bold move, Choudhury is making waves both for himself and for the country that now proudly calls football its home.
