Cuba Mitchell Joins Bashundhara Kings: A Promising Midfield Addition for the Bangladesh Premier League
Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) champions Bashundhara Kings have made a high-profile signing ahead of the 2025–26 season, bringing in Cuba Raul Mitchell, a promising central midfielder recently released by Sunderland AFC’s Under‑21 squad. At just 19 years old, Cuba Mitchell adds depth and international pedigree to the club’s midfield options. Let’s explore his background, international potential, and what his arrival means for the Kings and Bangladeshi football.
Early Life & Background
Cuba Raul Mitchell was born on November 23, 2005, in Birmingham, England. Raised in a multicultural household, he comes from a diverse background that reflects both Caribbean and South Asian roots. His father is of Jamaican descent, while his mother is of Bangladeshi heritage, making him eligible to represent three nations at the international level: England, Jamaica, and Bangladesh. This unique heritage has shaped his identity on and off the pitch. Though he began his football journey in England, Mitchell has recently chosen to represent Bangladesh on the international stage, a decision influenced by his maternal roots and the opportunity to play a key role in a growing football culture.
Youth Career in England
Cuba Mitchell began his football journey in the youth system of Birmingham City before moving to Sunderland AFC in 2022 on a two-year scholarship. During his time at Sunderland, he developed quickly and became a regular for the club’s Under-21 team, making 16 appearances in the 2023–24 season. His progress was rewarded when he signed his first professional contract with the club on July 4, 2024. Despite showing promise, Sunderland released him on July 1, 2025, allowing him to explore new opportunities as a free agent. This decision opened the door for Mitchell to take the next step in his career, leading to his recent signing with Bashundhara Kings. His time in English academies helped shape his skills and professional mindset.
International Allegiance & Eligibility
Cuba Mitchell is eligible to represent three countries at the international level: England, Jamaica, and Bangladesh. Born in Birmingham, England, to a Jamaican father and a Bangladeshi mother, Mitchell had multiple options when it came to choosing a national team. In April 2025, the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) reached out to him with interest in having him join the national setup. He responded positively to the opportunity.
On June 2, 2025, he officially obtained his Bangladeshi passport. Just a day later, on June 3, FIFA granted him clearance to represent Bangladesh on the international stage. With this approval, Mitchell is now eligible to wear the Bangladesh jersey in upcoming international fixtures, including qualifiers and regional tournaments. His commitment to Bangladesh marks an exciting step for the national team, which is looking to add more youth and international experience to its midfield. Mitchell’s arrival brings hope to fans and future growth for the team.
Transfer to Bashundhara Kings
Cuba Mitchell officially joined Bashundhara Kings in late July 2025, as confirmed by multiple sources including Instagram, Dhaka Tribune, and the Daily Sun. The club announced his signing shortly after he was released by Sunderland’s Under-21 squad. Mitchell’s arrival marks a significant move for the reigning five-time champions of the Bangladesh Premier League. He is expected to strengthen their midfield ahead of the upcoming domestic season and the AFC Challenge League.
According to reports, Mitchell is joining the Kings on one of the highest salary packages for a player based in Bangladesh. This move highlights the club’s commitment to investing in young, high-potential international talent. With his background in English football and eligibility to represent Bangladesh, his signing has already created excitement among fans and added depth to an already strong squad.
Player Profile & Style
| Profile Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cuba Raul Mitchell |
| Date of Birth | 23 November 2005 (19 years old) |
| Height | ~1.80 m |
| Position | Central Midfield (CM) |
| Foot | Right |
| Youth Clubs | Birmingham City, Sunderland U‑21 |
| Nationality | Bangladeshi (passport holder) |
| Joined Bashundhara | 28 July 2025 |
He is known for his ball-carrying ability, reading of the game, and adaptability in holding or box-to-box roles. While still young, Mitchell brings a blend of English academy training and athleticism likely to complement the Kings’ midfield.
Bashundhara Kings: Club Overview
Since its establishment, Bashundhara Kings has transformed the landscape of professional football in Bangladesh. Known for its strategic investments, strong management, and winning mentality, the club has set a new benchmark in both domestic and international competitions. With a loyal fan base and a clear vision for growth, Bashundhara Kings continues to raise the profile of Bangladeshi football through talent development, infrastructure, and consistent silverware.
Founded in 2013, Bashundhara Kings quickly rose to prominence in Bangladesh football. Since entering the BPL in 2018‑19, they’ve dominated the domestic stage:
Bangladesh Premier League: Champions consecutively from 2018–19 through 2023–24 (five straight titles)
Cup Competitions:
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Federation Cup winners in 2023–24
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Challenge Cup winners in November 2024
Home Ground: The modern Bashundhara Kings Arena, with capacity around 6,000, is a FIFA‑standard facility for club and international fixtures.
Management: Head coach Valeriu Tița took charge in August 2024, guiding the Kings to sustained success
The club’s focus on youth development and foreign signings has positioned them as Bangladesh’s powerhouse with continental ambitions.
What Mitchell Brings to the Kings
Cuba Mitchell brings a mix of youthful energy, technical skills, and international promise to Bashundhara Kings. At just 19 years old, he joins a team that already has a strong mix of experienced players and rising stars. His presence adds fresh motivation and hunger to the squad as they prepare for the new season.
One of the biggest strengths Mitchell offers is his international versatility. Now officially cleared by FIFA to represent Bangladesh, he not only strengthens the national team pool but also gives Bashundhara Kings a player who connects directly with local fans. His commitment to play for Bangladesh gives the club a strong identity link and aligns with the team’s vision of building for the future.
In terms of football ability, Mitchell adds much-needed depth to the midfield. The Kings already have skilled players like Miguel Figueira, Sohel Rana, and Suibur Rahman Mizan. With Mitchell in the mix, the team now has more flexibility in the center of the pitch. He can support both defensive and attacking transitions and serve as a reliable option when squad rotation is needed.
His training in England’s competitive youth systems, including time with Sunderland U-21, means he arrives with tactical awareness and discipline. This background helps raise the overall standard of the team and introduces a more professional approach to training and match preparation. For Bashundhara Kings, signing Cuba Mitchell is more than just adding a new player, it’s a step toward long-term success both at home and on the Asian football stage.
International Prospects
Cuba Mitchell officially became eligible to represent Bangladesh in June 2025 after receiving his Bangladeshi passport and securing FIFA clearance. This means he can now play for the Bangladesh national team in upcoming international matches. His arrival is timely, as the Bangladesh Football Federation has been actively seeking young, dual-nationality players to strengthen the squad. With major tournaments like the SAFF Championship and Asian Cup qualifiers ahead, Mitchell’s inclusion adds valuable depth to the midfield. His training in European academies and international exposure could bring a new level of skill and energy to the national team. Fans are hopeful that he will make his debut soon and play a key role in Bangladesh’s future campaigns.
Looking Forward: What Lies Ahead?
Looking ahead to the 2025–26 season, Cuba Mitchell is expected to play a key role in Bashundhara Kings’ midfield. As the reigning champions of the Bangladesh Premier League, the Kings will be aiming to defend their domestic titles while also making a strong push in the AFC Challenge League. Mitchell’s arrival brings fresh energy and international experience to the squad, which could help the club maintain its dominance in both local and regional competitions.
Under the guidance of head coach Valeriu Tița, Mitchell may be used in different roles depending on the team’s needs. He has the potential to play as a deep-lying playmaker who controls the tempo or as a more advanced box-to-box midfielder who links defense and attack. His versatility and youth make him a valuable addition to an already competitive squad.
As he settles into the Bangladesh Premier League, Mitchell could also become a part of the national team setup. Since receiving his Bangladeshi passport and FIFA clearance, he is eligible to represent Bangladesh. If he performs well in domestic matches, a national team call-up might come as early as the end of 2025 or during the 2026 international fixtures.
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