Bangladesh-origin Premier League midfielder Hamza Choudhury departed for England to rejoin Championship side Sheffield United after his short spell with the Bangladesh national team for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers third-round match against India.
Hamza returned to Dhaka from Kolkata on Wednesday with the national team, but his stay was brief, as he boarded a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight to leave for England on Thursday morning.
Before leaving, Hamza expressed his gratitude towards the fans and everyone else for their warm welcome and said he would return in June for Bangladesh鈥檚 next Asian Cup qualifiers match against Singapore.
鈥業 can鈥檛 explain how much this meant to me. Thank you. In Sha Allah, I will be back in June. Make dua for my good health,鈥� said Hamza in a video message provided by the Bangladesh Football Federation on Thursday.
His arrival on March 17 ignited enthusiasm among Bangladeshi football fans and players, followed by his international debut during a goalless draw against India in Shillong on March 25.
Bangladesh lamented their wasted opportunities throughout their four-team Group C match, but Hamza remained vibrant as the 27-year-old was everywhere on the ground, from making critical blocks and tackles to launching the attack that won the hearts of spectators and players.
Bangladesh forward Sheikh Morsalin was elated to play alongside Hamza.
鈥業t was a big experience for me to play alongside Hamza. I think it was the best-ever experience in my football career because he is an outstanding performer on and off the field,鈥� said Morsalin.
Beyond his football prowess, Hamza was lauded for his humility and professionalism by his team-mates and other sports figures of the country.
Bangladesh cricketer Liton Das praised Hamza through a social media post.
鈥業t was wonderful to meet Hamza Choudhury鈥攕uch a humble person & what a player! Hoping for a brighter future for Bangladesh football with him in the team,鈥� Liton wrote on his verified Facebook page.
鈥楧espite being an English Premier League player, he has no ego. He is a good person and never ignores us. Every player should have the qualities that Hamza has,鈥� said Bangladeshi midfielder Sohel Rana.
Earlier, Hamza鈥檚 10-day visit was marked by joy and enthusiasm. Upon arrival, he received a hero鈥檚 welcome, with thousands of fans gathering to greet him at the Osmani International Airport in Sylhet and his home district of Habiganj on 17 and 18 March.
The training sessions in Dhaka attracted eager spectators, and though Bangladesh did not secure a win against India, his composed and commanding performance earned huge admiration.
Hamza will now become engaged with Sheffield United鈥檚 upcoming fixture against Coventry City on March 28.
The club is currently second in the Championship, level on points with leaders Leeds United but trailing on goal difference.
