Mohsin Gilani Reveals PFF’s Roadmap for League System

Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Mohsin Gilani has outlined a long-term roadmap aimed at rebuilding football in the country through a structured league system and strong grassroots development.

Speaking about the federation’s vision, Gilani said the ultimate objective is to introduce district-level leagues, followed by provincial leagues and eventually a national league structure. He stressed that parallel competitions at youth and women’s levels are equally important.

“We want district leagues first, then provincial leagues, and after that national leagues. Along with this, there should be an Under-17 category league and an Under-20 women’s league,” Gilani said. “Until we organize leagues in different formats, players will not be able to progress through the system. However, we cannot do everything at the same time.”

Gilani acknowledged that Pakistan football has suffered for years due to governance issues, which significantly stalled development across all levels.

“For a long time, football in this country went through a crisis in terms of governance. There was no federation,” he said. “I do not believe in talking about the past. I focus on hope and moving forward, but we also have to be realistic and understand that progress takes time.”

Discussing grassroots initiatives, the PFF president revealed that provincial leagues form a key part of the federation’s development plan, with early progress already visible in the capital.

“In Islamabad, the Capital League is already taking place. All teams are affiliated and are playing within the official framework, which is extremely important for football’s revival,” he noted.

Gilani emphasized that the grassroots programme is designed as a long-term project and includes the Football for Schools initiative. According to him, player development begins at the school level before transitioning to club football.

“A player starts from school. Club football comes later. That is why promoting football in schools is a major part of our plan,” he explained.

He also highlighted a new youth-focused initiative aimed at using football as a tool for social impact. Gilani confirmed that the PFF has entered into a partnership with UN Youth, UN agencies operating in Pakistan, and the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme to launch a nationwide campaign.

“We want to engage the youth through football. Together, we are launching a campaign focused on mental health awareness among young people through football,” he said.

According to Gilani, the final presentation of this initiative will be held on July 17 at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.