Syed Mohsen Gilani expressed gratitude to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his strong support in promoting the game and for championing talent hunt initiatives that aim to strengthen Pakistan’s football future. Gilani said the Field Marshal’s football vision and personal interest in youth development are proving decisive in discovering young prospects across the country.
Speaking during a meeting with Pakistan’s Under-16 national team, which is participating in the UEFA Development Tournament for the first time, the PFF president highlighted the role of the armed forces in shaping the pathway for emerging players. He noted that collaboration with the Army has helped open avenues for international exposure and structured development.
Gilani credited the Director General Army Fitness and Sports Directorate for successfully implementing the talent hunt program, which has identified promising players from grassroots levels. He stressed the federation’s responsibility to provide continued opportunities and clear development routes so that identified talent can progress to higher levels.
The PFF will maintain close cooperation with the Army to support Pakistan’s participation in major international events and to further the overall development of football in the country. Gilani described tournaments such as the UEFA Development Tournament as valuable learning platforms where young players can refine skills and gain competitive experience.
Pakistan Under-16 coach Muhammad Essa said participation in the UEFA Development Tournament was a milestone for the team and a personal source of pride. I represented Pakistan for 20 years but never got an opportunity to play in a UEFA event, he said, adding that for the first time a generation of talented young Pakistani players is being given the chance to compete on a UEFA stage.
Gilani concluded that sustaining the Field Marshal’s football vision through continued Army collaboration and focused talent programs will be essential for nurturing the next wave of Pakistani footballers and raising the country’s standards at international youth events.
