ISLAMABAD: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has voiced strong confidence in Pakistan’s football revival, calling the current phase a “turning point” after nearly a decade of internal turmoil and repeated suspensions of the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF).
During his three-day visit, Sheikh Salman held high-level meetings with the country’s top leadership — including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Acting President Yousuf Raza Gilani, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi — with the central focus on stabilising the PFF and reshaping Pakistan’s football landscape.
The AFC chief acknowledged that the past eight years were marked by unprecedented disruptions, with the PFF suspended three times and placed under a prolonged FIFA-mandated Normalisation Committee. However, he stressed that the election of a new PFF body, coupled with updated statutes aligned with FIFA and AFC governance frameworks, signals a move towards institutional stability.
Sheikh Salman praised PFF President Mohsen Gilani’s football background and credentials, emphasising the need to allow the new leadership time and support to deliver results. “We need people who understand the game. Pakistan has immense potential, and from here, the only way forward is upward,” he remarked.
The AFC president also highlighted the importance of restoring Pakistan’s domestic league — a fundamental element for talent development — and promoting football at the grassroots level. He noted that the objective is not immediate continental success, but building a sustainable football culture that inspires youth participation.
On financial transparency and accountability, Sheikh Salman was firm. He cautioned that access to global football funding will remain contingent upon responsible utilisation, compliance with regulations, and a measurable commitment to reforms.
The visit represents a renewed backing from Asia’s top football body at a moment when Pakistan is attempting to rebuild its football identity. With structural reforms underway and international support reaffirmed, the nation’s football trajectory now hinges on consistent governance, grassroots focus, and long-term planning.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.