Premier League footballer Hamza Choudhury has officially made his debut for the Bangladesh national team in a historic and emotional moment that has captured the hearts of fans both in South Asia and across the UK.
The 27-year-old midfielder, currently on loan at Sheffield United from Leicester City, previously represented England at the U21 level. However, in December 2024, he made the significant decision to switch his international allegiance to Bangladesh, honouring his mother’s heritage and sparking waves of celebration among Bangladeshi football supporters.
Choudhury, born in Loughborough to a Bangladeshi mother and Grenadian father, was greeted like a hero upon his arrival in Dhaka earlier this month. Tens of thousands of fans lined the streets, waving flags, beating drums, and chanting his name as he was escorted from the airport. Videos of the welcome went viral, with fans describing the moment as “goosebump-inducing” and “a proud day for Bangladeshi football.”
His debut came on 25 March 2025, during a high-stakes 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifier match against regional rivals India. The game ended in a 0–0 draw, but Choudhury’s commanding presence in midfield impressed commentators and fans alike. With regular captain Jamal Bhuyan not in the starting lineup, Choudhury’s leadership on the pitch quickly became apparent.
Speaking after the match, Choudhury said:
“I am super proud. The national anthem gave me goosebumps. It was an emotional experience I’ll never forget. The support from the fans has been overwhelming, and I want to do everything I can to help this team grow.”
His decision to represent Bangladesh has sparked renewed interest in the national team and brought international attention to the country’s footballing ambitions. With professional experience in one of the world’s most competitive leagues, Choudhury brings a wealth of skill, discipline, and global visibility to the squad.
But his mission extends beyond matchdays. Choudhury has expressed his commitment to contributing to the long-term development of football in Bangladesh. He hopes to inspire young players in the region to dream bigger and push for opportunities abroad.
“There’s so much talent here. If we can create the right pathways, we’ll see Bangladeshi players thriving in Europe and beyond. I want to help make that happen.”
Social media in both Bangladesh and the UK lit up with messages of support, pride, and excitement following his debut. The story has also resonated deeply with the British Bangladeshi community, many of whom see Choudhury as a powerful symbol of cross-cultural identity and pride.
As he continues to play a pivotal role for Bangladesh, Hamza Choudhury’s presence promises not only to boost team performance but also to elevate the nation's standing in the global football community.