Cuba Mitchell has removed all Bangladesh-related photographs from his Instagram account, fuelling speculation over his future with the national football team.
The 20-year-old midfielder’s decision comes at a time when his position within Bangladesh’s plans has become uncertain. Head coach Thomas Doley has not included Mitchell directly in the main training camp ahead of the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup, with reports suggesting that the youngster may first have to attend a trial before being considered for selection.
Doley recently explained his position in an interview with an online media outlet. The coach said he had not yet watched Mitchell play and therefore did not feel comfortable selecting him for the main camp without first assessing his abilities and style of play.
Doley indicated that his approach could be different for players competing regularly in England’s higher professional divisions. A footballer established in the Premier League, Championship or the first two tiers of English football would already have a level of competitive exposure that could make assessment easier, he suggested.
The coach stressed that he wanted to see players in action before making decisions about the national team. His position is that selection should follow an assessment of a footballer’s current form, playing style and suitability for the team rather than being based solely on previous international involvement.
That stance has apparently created an awkward situation for Mitchell, who has previously represented Bangladesh. There have also been reports of disagreement between the player and the national team set-up over travel expenses. Despite having already played for the country, Mitchell was reportedly asked to cover his own travel costs to attend the selection camp.
The issue has added another layer to the uncertainty surrounding his international future.
Mitchell has developed much of his football career in England. He previously spent time in Sunderland’s academy, where he was exposed to the structure and demands of English youth football. He has recently joined Stratford Town FC, a club competing in the lower levels of the English football pyramid.
For a young midfielder attempting to establish himself at senior level, regular competitive football will be particularly important. His performances for his new club could therefore play a role in determining whether he receives another opportunity with Bangladesh.
There has been no official announcement that Mitchell has been permanently ruled out of the national team. Doley’s comments suggest that the door may remain open, but the player is expected to prove his readiness before being considered for a place in the squad.
Mitchell’s removal of Bangladesh-related photographs from Instagram has nevertheless attracted attention because of the timing. Social media decisions do not necessarily amount to an official statement, and Mitchell has not publicly explained why the photographs were removed. As a result, any interpretation of the move remains speculative.
The episode also highlights the challenges faced by national teams when assessing players who have developed their careers abroad. Coaches need to balance a footballer’s previous international experience with his current club form and tactical suitability. For players based overseas, practical issues such as travel, communication and access to training camps can also become part of the selection process.
For Mitchell, the immediate priority appears to be establishing himself at club level and earning another chance to demonstrate his ability. Whether that leads to a return to Bangladesh colours will depend largely on his performances and Doley’s assessment.
For now, the midfielder’s relationship with the national team remains uncertain, while the disappearance of Bangladesh-related images from his Instagram has added intrigue to an already delicate situation.
