Speaking to media persons in Karachi, Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Mohsen Gillani unveiled plans for a new professional, club-based football league built around local realities rather than imported franchise formulas.
“This will neither be PSL-style nor ISL-style. It will be PFF-style,” Gillani declared.
Unlike the franchise-driven models of the Pakistan Super League or India’s Indian Super League, the proposed competition will be rooted in traditional club structures. The aim? Long-term sustainability, grassroots development, and genuine football culture not just flashy branding. The league, described as commercial in nature, is expected to feature teams from across the country, marking a significant step in rebuilding domestic football after years of disruption.
National Teams First, League Next
While the league is an ambitious project, Gillani made it clear that the federation’s top priority remains the national teams, both men’s and women’s.
“Our entire focus is on improving the national teams,” he said. Pakistan recently appointed former Peru international Norberto Solano as head coach, a move Gillani described as a turning point. Solano is expected to hold a national training camp soon in preparation for the upcoming fixture against Myanmar. Ramadan, however, has made arranging preparatory friendlies difficult. Gillani expressed optimism after Pakistan’s performance against Afghanistan, who were ranked higher. With Myanmar at a similar level, he believes victory is within reach. Importantly, he stressed that team selection rests solely with the coach.
“It is not the job of the PFF president to decide who plays,” he said. “Whoever the coach believes is best will represent Pakistan. The federation will fully support him.”
Infrastructure, FIFA Ties & A Fresh Start
Beyond team performance, infrastructure development is underway. Two mini-pitches have already been completed, with more planned nationwide. Gillani also revealed that the president of FIFA is expected to visit Pakistan soon.
Pakistan’s football activities were suspended for nearly a decade due to internal disputes and FIFA interventions, a period that severely stunted development. Gillani said his relationships within FIFA and other federations have helped smooth administrative hurdles, allowing greater cooperation in training players, coaches, and referees.
Regionally, Pakistan and India recently competed in SAFF futsal in Thailand in a positive atmosphere. Gillani said football can serve as a bridge between the two neighbours and confirmed discussions with the government regarding participation in the SAFF Championship.
No More “Overseas vs Local” Debate
Addressing a recurring debate, Gillani dismissed the distinction between overseas-based and locally based players.
“If a player is eligible to represent Pakistan, then he is a Pakistani footballer,” he said. “If FIFA declares him eligible and the coach considers him suitable, he will play.”
Looking ahead, Gillani projected tangible performance improvements within two years, pointing to encouraging progress in the under-17 setup. He added that strong youth performances typically translate to senior-level gains within a couple of years. Women’s football, he noted, has already delivered promising results in recent months.
“We are hopeful that in two years, Pakistan football will be on the rise — especially women’s football.”
After nearly a decade of setbacks, Pakistan football is talking about structure, sustainability, and long-term planning again. If execution matches ambition, this could be the restart the game has been waiting for.
Source: Geo News
About the author: Mohsin Rasheed is the co-founder & Chief editor of Footballer.pk