Pakistan Under-17 captain Abdul Samad Khan has secured a two-year contract with Azerbaijani champions Qarabag FK, marking another encouraging milestone for Pakistani football. The talented midfielder will join the club’s youth setup as the country’s young players continue finding opportunities abroad after years of administrative setbacks.
The move reflects renewed optimism for Pakistan football following the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) elections conducted by FIFA’s Normalisation Committee. Moreover, it highlights a gradual return to international opportunities for emerging talent.
Abdul Samad Khan Joins Qarabag FK
Abdul Samad Khan, who captains Pakistan’s Under-17 team, has signed a two-year deal with Qarabag FK.
The young midfielder will represent the Azerbaijani club’s youth team, with the youth league scheduled to begin in September.
Samad currently plays for Islamabad-based Popo FC and belongs to Manyar village in Swat district.
He described the transfer as a valuable opportunity for his development.
“InshaAllah, this will be very supportive for me,” Samad said.
He added, “Football here is of a very high standard and I hope to achieve my goals and become a better footballer. I was selected after three to four days of trials. The documentation process will take some time, but it is a great opportunity to play for Qarabag.”
Overseas Experience Expected to Boost Development
Former Pakistan head coach Shehzad Anwar, who helped facilitate the transfer and accompanied Samad during the process, believes the move will accelerate the youngster’s progress.
He emphasized that training in a highly competitive environment will strengthen Samad’s skills and prepare him for higher levels of football.
Shehzad also revealed that another Pakistani player is awaiting completion of a move to the same club.
“It will definitely help Samad,” he said.
He further added, “We also have another player whose move is pending and is expected to sign with the same club.”
Pakistan Football Showing Signs of Recovery
Pakistan football endured years of uncertainty because of administrative disputes and legal battles.
Those issues deprived players of regular domestic competitions and international exposure. Consequently, the development of many talented footballers suffered.
However, recent overseas transfers indicate that the situation is gradually improving.
Earlier this year, striker Kaleemullah Junior signed for Turkish club Sariyer SK. Samad’s move to Azerbaijan now adds another positive chapter to Pakistan’s football revival.
Overseas Opportunities Return for Young Footballers
Pakistani players also earned international contracts in 2014 when several senior footballers, including former captain Kaleemullah, joined Kyrgyz club Dordoi Bishkek.
Later, Kaleemullah continued his career in the United States, Turkey and other countries.
Several Pakistani footballers also played in leagues in Bahrain and the Maldives before domestic football activities came to a prolonged halt.
That interruption disrupted the careers of many players and significantly reduced opportunities for international exposure.
Fresh Hope for Pakistan Football
With the PFF elections completed a year ago, optimism has started returning to Pakistan football.
Young players are once again receiving opportunities to compete abroad and develop in stronger football environments.
Such exposure can improve individual performances while strengthening Pakistan’s future national teams.
Abdul Samad Khan’s move to Qarabag FK represents more than a personal achievement. It also signals that Pakistani football is slowly rebuilding, offering renewed hope for the country’s next generation of talented players.
