Pakistan’s new head coach Nolberto Solano has promised to lift the national football team by building a structure that can match the progress of regional rivals such as Iran, India and China.
The Peruvian, a former English Premier League star, officially took charge in Lahore this week. His first assignment will come next month when Pakistan face Cambodia, Iraq and Oman in Group G of the qualifiers for the 2026 AFC Under-23 Asian Cup. The event is scheduled to be played in Japan early next year.
I truly believe Pakistan can achieve something meaningful. Our immediate focus is on the U23 squad, and we’ll give it everything we’ve got. With hard work, balance and time, we can build a strong foundation for the future, just like teams from the region.
From Premier League star to Pakistan dugout
Solano, capped 95 times for Peru, was a household name in the English Premier League with spells at Newcastle United, Aston Villa and West Ham United. Renowned for his flair on the wing and precise delivery, he later turned to coaching and was part of Peru’s staff when they qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Federation turns a new page
The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) president, Syed Mohsen Gilani, played a key role in bringing Solano on board. Gilani, who took charge earlier this year after FIFA’s Normalisation Committee ended its six-year tenure, has prioritised stability and long-term planning.
Pakistan have never qualified for a FIFA World Cup and hold just one win in their qualification history — a memorable victory over Cambodia in 2019. Their progress has been further hampered by administrative turmoil, including a brief suspension by FIFA earlier this year over government interference.
Abundance of untapped talent
Despite these hurdles, Solano says he sees potential everywhere he looks.
I understand the issues Pakistan football is currently facing. In the few days I’ve spent here, I’ve seen an abundance of talent. The players are passionate and eager to play quality football.
The new coach also plans to tap into Pakistan’s diaspora, particularly in the UK. “We will hold talent-hunt schemes there. A number of UK-based players have recently represented Pakistan, and they have already raised the standard of the team’s overall play,” he added.
