Bangladesh national team head coach Thomas Dooley has finalized his squad for the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup, a process that saw six players released from the training camp. Among those excluded is Syed Kazem Shah. Despite the disappointment of missing the cut, Kazem has publicly expressed his respect for the coach’s decision. He described the recent training camp as being similar to a rigorous pre-season, noting the intensity of the twice-daily sessions. While he admits to feeling frustrated by his departure, he emphasized that as a professional, he accepts the outcome and is focused on moving forward.
Kazem, who previously served under former coach Javier Cabrera, spoke highly of both managers. He noted that while he may not have always been central to their tactical plans, he maintains a strong personal relationship with both men and respects their professional judgment. Regarding his exit, Kazem revealed that he had a constructive conversation with coach Dooley about the specific areas of his game that require further development. He intends to take this feedback to heart, working diligently on his weaknesses to improve his overall performance.
Despite his current status outside the national setup, Kazem remains confident in the team’s potential, citing the strength of the current squad and the quality of both local and incoming players. He expressed a strong desire to see the team succeed in the upcoming tournament. For Kazem, the dream of representing his country remains alive, and he is determined not to give up. He is already looking ahead to the SAFF Championship, where he hopes to earn a recall by proving his worth through hard work and consistent growth.
Looking toward the domestic season, Kazem is set to compete for Bashundhara Kings. He is highly motivated to contribute to the club’s success, stating that his primary goal for the year is to secure a championship title. Beyond team achievements, he remains committed to his personal evolution as a footballer, aiming to elevate his game to a higher standard in the months to come.
