Cuba Mitchell leaves Bangladesh, citing unpaid salaries at Kings

Following the footsteps of defender Tariq Kazi, midfielder Cuba Mitchell has left Bashundhara Kings, citing unpaid wages.

Cuba, who joined the five-time Bangladesh league champions at the end of July, departed for England after posting a lengthy statement on social media in which he alleged that salary payments were due from the club.

"Today, I have made the decision to bring my contract with Bashundhara Kings to an end following outstanding salary payments," Cuba wrote.
"This was the main reason behind my decision. However, playing under circumstances where persistent issues remained unresolved was both mentally and physically challenging," the statement added.

It could not be independently verified how many months of salary were outstanding. Bashundhara Kings president Imrul Hasan did not respond to repeated phone calls. Attempts to reach Cuba for clarification were also unsuccessful.

The former Sunderland FC youth team player arrived in Bangladesh amid high expectations, with the Bashundhara Kings president previously claiming the club had secured a three-year contract with the 20-year-old midfielder.

Cuba went on to acquire a Bangladeshi passport and earned his maiden international cap in November. However, his club stint proved largely disappointing, as he struggled for regular playing time.

Cuba left Bangladesh, looking for opportunities in England, ahead of the opening of the mid-season transfer window on Sunday .

His departure comes around 10 weeks after defender Tariq Kazi left Bashundhara Kings, also alleging unpaid dues after serving the club for six years. Tariq has since lodged a formal complaint against the club with FIFA, the world football governing body. A former coach and a trainer had also filed complaints against Bashundhara Kings with FIFA last year.