ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has made a landmark appointment, naming Arooj Sohail Butt as manager of the Pakistan men’s under-17 national team — the first time in the country’s football history that a woman has been entrusted with managing a boys’ side at both national and international levels.
Currently serving as PFF’s safeguarding officer, Butt holds safeguarding certifications from FIFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF).
She will lead the under-17 squad in preparations for the upcoming SAFF Championship and Asian qualifiers later this year.
PFF officials described the move as a step toward building a more inclusive and professional football environment, empowering qualified women to take on leadership roles. The decision aligns with FIFA’s anti-discrimination policies and its 2016 governance reforms mandating the active participation of women across all levels of football management.
While women have long contributed to grassroots football in Pakistan, their presence in top-tier decision-making roles has remained minimal. Notably, in 2019, the PFF Normalisation Committee appointed Manizeh Zainli as general secretary — a rare breakthrough at the time.
“This decision not only promotes gender equality but also reinforces our commitment to safeguarding, professionalism, and institutional excellence,” a PFF official stated. The appointment also underscores the federation’s adherence to FIFA and AFC safeguarding standards, ensuring the rights and welfare of minors in football are fully protected.
Top Google search trends about Pakistan
Best gaming phone in Pakistan, bestselling car in Pakistan, most selling car in Pakistan, New range rover price in Pakistan, shortest day of the year in Pakistan, best cigarettes in Pakistan, how to get Luxembourg visa from Pakistan, Nathia Gali from Islamabad, Mercedez Jeep price in Pakistan, 14 August Pakistan independence day, 14 Aug holiday, Italy visa apply from Pakistan, Toyota Crown hybrid price in Pakistan, 2nd marriage law in Pakistan, fashion trends in Pakistan, 20k solar system price in Pakistan, causes of terrorism in Pakistan, MacBook price in Pakistan, Galaxy S26 Series, Xiaomi 16, Snapdragon 8
