Bashundhara Kings find themselves in a rather embarrassing predicament with their Brazilian attacking midfielder, Robson Robinho. The club's policymakers are currently deliberating on whether to retain the player or let him go.
Sources indicate that Robson, who has not received his salary for three months, is refusing to return to Dhaka until the outstanding payments are settled. His monthly salary stands at a substantial taka 55 lakh. This financial standoff has left Kings Officials deeply concerned.
The club is set to travel to Bhutan this month to participate in the AFC Challenge League, with Robson's name included in the list submitted to the AFC. However, the club is now formulating a new strategy that does not involve Robson. Consequently, they have recruited Sulaiman Diabate from Mohammedan Sporting Club (MSC) for the Bhutan trip.
In addition to Diabate, two other foreign players have been added to the squad. Robson, who served as the Kings' captain, will be notably absent from the challenge tournament in Bhutan.
Attempts to reach several Kings Officials for comment were unsuccessful. Club President Imrul Hasan did not respond to calls, and Manager Wasim also failed to answer repeated attempts to contact him. Eventually, Vidyut Kumar, the general secretary of Bashundhara Kings, responded. When questioned about Robson, he acknowledged, "There are some internal problems."
Regarding the three-month salary arrears, Kumar stated, "It will be resolved. It is an internal matter. I don't know, our president knows." He added, "I can provide more information about Robson in 36 hours." It appears that Imrul Hasan is actively addressing the situation with Robson.
Imrul Hasan confirmed that Robson has been absent from Bangladesh for four months and assured that the club would settle the outstanding salary. However, there are growing concerns about whether Robson will don the Kings' jersey next season. It is more likely that he will not. Negotiations for a new salary are reportedly underway for the upcoming season.
While Robson may not feature for the Kings next season, there are also plans to grant him clearance. Imrul Hasan remarked, "This is a difficult season. It's the year of the Budget Cartel. If he (Robson) makes sacrifices, we'll see what we can do."
Bashundhara Kings have never been known to shy away from spending money. Imrul Hasan has historically invested heavily in players. However, it appears that the club's management is now considering a more frugal approach. Imrul Hasan may need to reassess the situation with high-salary players like Robson.
