PFF Appoints Nolberto Solano and Jorge Castaneira to Coaching Roles

The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has officially endorsed the selection of Nolberto Solano as the new head coach and Jorge Castaneira as the assistant coach for both the senior and under-23 national teams of Pakistan. This important decision follows a favorable vote from the PFF Executive Committee.

The decision was approved after seven out of thirteen PFF Executive Committee members voted in favour.

Executive Committee Vote

The confirmation came after a vote within the PFF Executive Committee, where a majority of seven out of thirteen members voted to approve the appointments. While heralding a new era for Pakistani football, the decision was not unanimously supported, with six committee members voting against the proposal.

Solano’s Background

Nolberto Solano, a 48-year-old from Peru, arrives with significant experience as both a former player and a seasoned coach.

  • He possesses a FIFA CONMEBOL Pro Licence.
  • He has participated in major international tournaments, including serving as an assistant coach for Peru at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.
  • His guidance was also key to Peru’s fourth-place finish at the 2021 Copa America.

During his playing career, Solano represented Peru 95 times, scoring 20 goals, and played for prominent clubs such as Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and Boca Juniors.

Castaneira’s Expertise

Joining Solano is Jorge Castaneira, an Argentine physical trainer known for his expertise in football conditioning and tactical advancement. He contributed to Venezuela’s national team during the 2002 World Cup qualifying matches and has supported clubs across South America and the Middle East.

  • He has worked with Peru’s Club Deportivo Municipal and Real Garcilaso.
  • Castañeira has authored three books on soccer training methods, emphasizing speed, accuracy, and anaerobic performance.
  • He has led teams to promotions and cup titles, including Ras Al Khaima Sport Club to the UAE First Division Cup in 2010.
Future Plans

Both coaches will be a part of the Pakistan Football setup for a year, emphasizing immediate enhancements in player performance and sustained youth development. Their initial focus will be preparing the team for the forthcoming 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers and introducing modern training approaches to improve Pakistan’s competitive edge.

A reliable source within the PFF has indicated that the coaches have consented to join the Pakistan Football teams and that the final contracts are expected to be formalized this week.