Rakib Hossain, a shining star for Bangladesh's national football team, couldn't hide his joy after being named the "Best Footballer of the Year 2023" by the Bangladesh Sports Press Association (BSPA). The BSPA, established in 1964, is the nation's oldest organization of sports journalists, known for recognizing athletes' contributions through annual awards.
For a long time, Bangladesh's striking force has faced challenges. However, Rakib Hossain emerged as a beacon of hope, showcasing his talent on both local and international fields. This versatile player excels in various positions, primarily as a left winger, and has consistently proven his goal-scoring abilities. BSPA acknowledged his exceptional performances throughout the year, awarding him the coveted title of Best Footballer.
While receiving the award from Bangladesh Post, Rakib expressed his excitement and a deeper ambition. He aspires, along with his generation of footballers, to lay a solid foundation for future generations, propelling the national team to new heights.
Rakib shared his thoughts on the BSPA award: "This esteemed award has a rich history, honoring legendary players I highly admire. As a footballer, receiving it is a dream come true. Today, I'm overwhelmed with happiness and pride. Bangladesh boasts numerous talented athletes across various sports – athletics, swimming, cricket, and more. Being recognized as the best footballer feels like a crowning achievement in my career."
In an interview with The Bangladesh Post on Sunday, Rakib emphasized his aspirations for the national team: "Absolutely, I dream big for our team. By the time I conclude my career, I envision Bangladesh reaching a significantly higher level in the world of football."
Rakib acknowledges the increased expectations surrounding him after his impressive performances. He remains focused on delivering impactful results: "While I won't set specific goalscoring targets – goals will naturally come if I perform well – the team's success is my primary objective."
Following a stellar season with Abahani in 2021-22, Rakib joined the national team in 2019. Later, he secured a position with the Bashundhara Kings, a three-time champion club, where he thrived despite facing competition from skilled foreign players.
Driven by an insatiable desire to excel, Rakib aspires to make a lasting impact: "Honestly, I have a constant urge to prove myself. But more than that, I want to achieve something truly inspiring. I want to motivate the next generation, encouraging them to surpass our accomplishments."
Rakib's journey began on the football pitches of his hometown, Barishal. His dedication led him to join a third-division league team in Dhaka. This initial step eventually paved the way for him to be selected by Bangladesh Police FC, a team competing in the Bangladesh Championship League's second tier. Through hard work and talent, Rakib has risen to become a national hero.
