Cabrera and Butler retained as Bangladesh football coaches
The contracts of both coaches had officially expired on 31 December, but BFF president Tabith Awal decided to retain the duo rather than seek new appointments.
Javier Cabrera and Peter Butler will continue as the respective coaches of Bangladesh's men's and women's football teams, the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) confirmed following an emergency committee meeting on 15 January.
The contracts of both coaches had officially expired on 31 December, but BFF president Tabith Awal decided to retain the duo rather than seek new appointments. The emergency meeting, held online with Awal participating from England, finalised their extensions, with formal announcements expected shortly.
Cabrera's contract will now extend until March 2026, ensuring his involvement in the Asian Cup qualifiers. Butler, meanwhile, has been given a one-year deal, keeping him with the women's team until January 2026.
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The BFF is yet to form a full committee but moved forward with this decision through the emergency committee, which includes the president, senior vice-president, and four vice-presidents.
Formalities regarding the contracts are expected to be completed within days, pending executive committee approval. Some members of the executive committee, however, have expressed dissatisfaction with the decision being made outside their purview.
Butler's continuation comes despite challenges faced during the SAFF Championship in October, when senior women's players staged a rebellion against him. The coach, in turn, accused the players of being influenced by external forces. At the time, it seemed unlikely Butler would continue.
The BFF is working to arrange matches for the women's team during the FIFA window in March, with plans to hold a training camp at the BFF building. On the first day of the camp, 13 of the 31 invited players reported.
Cabrera's term has been extended to ensure stability for the men's team ahead of the Asian Cup qualifiers. The federation is planning a training camp in Saudi Arabia ahead of their first match against India on 25 March.
The decision to retain Cabrera and Butler aligns with Awal's broader approach to ensuring continuity in the coaching structure. Awal remains optimistic about resolving FIFA-related financial issues soon, which were also discussed during the meeting.
Formal announcements regarding the coaches' contracts are expected imminently.
