LAHORE: Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani has expressed gratitude to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his strong support in promoting football and launching nationwide talent hunt programs. Gilani said the armed forces are playing a decisive role in discovering young talent and shaping the future of the sport in Pakistan.
Speaking during a meeting with Pakistan’s Under-16 national football team, which is participating in the UEFA Development Tournament for the first time, Gilani described Asim Munir as a sports-loving personality deeply committed to youth development. He noted that the Army Fitness and Sports Directorate has successfully implemented talent hunt initiatives, identifying promising players from the grassroots level.
Gilani emphasized that it is the federation’s responsibility to provide opportunities to these youngsters and ensure their progress. He added that with the Army’s continued support, Pakistan can aim for greater participation in major international events and strengthen football’s overall development in the country.
Highlighting the importance of exposure, Gilani said tournaments like the UEFA Development Tournament serve as excellent learning platforms where young players can sharpen their skills and gain valuable international experience.
On the same occasion, Pakistan U-16 coach Muhammad Essa described the team’s participation in the UEFA event as a dream come true. “I represented Pakistan for 20 years but never got an opportunity to play in a UEFA event. For the first time, talented young Pakistani players are getting the chance to compete in a UEFA tournament,” he remarked.
