The coach has expressed his desire to work shoulder-to-shoulder with everyone for the betterment of football.
The rumors circulating over the past few days have turned out to be true. Golam Rabbani Choton, the coach who led Bangladesh to its first Women’s SAFF Championship victory, has returned as the head coach of the Elite Academy.
Previously, the Elite Academy was under the guidance of Peter James Butler. Before the last Women’s SAFF Championship, Butler was assigned to coach the women’s national team. Despite numerous challenges, his coaching saw Sabina, Maria, and the team bring the trophy home from Nepal.
The historic success of the Women’s SAFF Championship in 2022, where Bangladesh claimed its first-ever title, was scripted under Choton’s leadership. At the Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu, the Bangladeshi women defeated the hosts Nepal 3-1 to become the champions of South Asia.
However, Choton’s journey with the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) didn’t last long after that success. By mid-2023, he stepped down as coach and later took charge of the Bangladesh Army team.
There had been speculation that Butler, the English coach who successfully defended the SAFF crown, might be retained. Amidst these discussions, BFF officially announced Choton’s return as the head coach of the Elite Academy.
Taking up his new role, Choton shared his message, expressing optimism about working collectively for football’s development:
“After a long time, I’m speaking with you here again. I’d like to thank everyone for giving me another opportunity with the Football Federation. I’ve returned here (BFF) with a fresh start. I believe I’ll be able to work the way I did before. The responsibility I’ve received to develop youth football presents a significant opportunity. My focus will be on improving the players and preparing them for higher levels.”
“I want these players to not only become great athletes but also good human beings in the future. I’ve had discussions with the BFF President (Tabith Awal) and Vice-President (Naser Jahidi), and they’ve assured me of their full support. Together, we’ll work to enhance the players’ growth. Our main focus will always remain on their development. Here, it’s all about the work.”
Choton previously worked briefly as the assistant coach for the men’s national team in 2008. Now, taking charge of the Elite Academy at the Bir Sreshtho Shaheed Sipahi Mostafa Kamal Stadium in Kamalapur, he returns to men’s football.
