Gilani optimistic about football’s revival after government support

LAHORE: Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani is optimistic about football revival as the government of Pakistan has stepped up its efforts to promote the game across the country.

He termed it as new “new chapter of unity and purpose” for the nation’s most passionate yet long-neglected sport. Gilani shared this optimism following his meeting in Islamabad with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah.

Gilani shared this optimism over renewed state support and pledged to work “in close coordination with all stakeholders” to secure a stable and democratic football structure. The PFF chief thanked the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination and the Pakistan Sports Board for facilitating the rebuilding of the federation on democratic lines, adding that identifying and grooming football talent across Pakistan would now become a central priority.

The Islamabad meeting was also attended by Acting General Secretary Muhammad Shahid Niaz Khokhar. During the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Dar assured the PFF of full state support, promising modern facilities and guidance to help Pakistan compete on the world stage.