PFF Emphasizes Youth Development with Gilani’s FIFA Appointment

LAHORE: The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) announced Friday that its president, Syed Mohsen Gilani, has been appointed to the FIFA Youth Boys Competitions Committee.

According to the PFF, this distinction for Gilani came during the FIFA Council meeting held on October 1. The federation views this appointment as a recognition of its dedication to both youth advancement and global collaboration in football.

The PFF stated, “During its meeting on October 1, 2025, the FIFA Council designated Pakistan Football Federation President Syed Mohsen Gilani as a member of the FIFA Youth Boys Competitions Committee, which is presided over by Mathurin De Chacus of Benin, a FIFA Council member.”

“As one of FIFA’s most vital entities, the Youth Boys Competitions Committee is entrusted with developing the structure, growth, and administration of youth tournaments across the globe, all with the goal of fostering the next wave of football talent.

“President Syed Mohsen Gilani’s presence on this esteemed committee underscores PFF’s commitment to the progress of youth and international partnerships within football.”

Notably, Gilani, previously a FIFA Development Officer, was chosen as the PFF’s 17th president in May of this year. He is the first individual to hold this position after a six-year break.

After being appointed, Gilani strongly emphasized how crucial it is to empower grassroots initiatives in order to build a long-lasting football environment in the nation.

He stated, “Our goal is unambiguous: to establish a sustainable football ecosystem founded on professionalism, openness, and community-level empowerment.”

During the FIFA Executive Football Summit the following month, Gilani also had a meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss important development areas, including governance changes, the expansion of women’s football, youth involvement through FIFA’s Football for Schools program, and the FIFA President’s visit to Pakistan.

Infantino responded by voicing his optimism for the resurgence of Pakistani football following a number of years of administrative difficulties.

Infantino stated, “I was delighted to meet with the new Pakistan Football Federation president to discuss his strategies for football development and how FIFA can continue to help the sport in his nation.”