KP Sharma 

For the past two years, Bhutan’s senior national team have not played major international tournaments because to Covid-19 pandemic and restrictions.

The Federation is currently in the process of selecting the players for the new squad.

Phuntsho Wangdi, Bhutan Football Federation’s media head, said that the senior national team get to play only limited tournaments at the international level.

The coming year would see the national squad play major international tournaments and friendly matches.

The new squad will be selected from A-League clubs, Bhutan Premier League.

Phuntsho Wangdi said that it is not wise for the people to blame the federation for not selecting the players representing all the dzongkhags. “We have coaches and focal persons who recommend us the player based on their skill and capability.”

The federation said that clubs invest heavily to bring talented players to the Bhutan Premier League from where the national squad is selected.

Bhutan Football Federation (BFF) is looking forward to playing at least two international friendly matches.

Phuntsho Wangdi said that international friendlies usually happen in January and September. “When we arrange the matches we also consider the quality of the team as it has an impact on FIFA ranking of our team.”

Currently, most of the national players are playing in clubs like Thimphu City FC, Druk Lhayul FC, Paro FC, Transport FC, and RTC.

National players are paid a stipend of Nu 30,000 per month by the federation besides what they earn from the club.

Some players also opted for scholarships in schools and colleges which BFF sponsors.

Bhutan Football Federation receives grants from FIFA and Asian Football Federation. Japan Football Association, Korean Football Association, and other international partners support the Federation. It also receives a budget from the government.