DAVOS: Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development and legendary former Arsenal manager, has highlighted Pakistan’s immense football potential, signaling plans to establish a specialized football academy in the country.
Speaking to the media during the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, Wenger emphasized that Pakistan’s massive population is its greatest asset. With a population of 250 million, he noted that Pakistan is a significant nation in terms of talent where football can be promoted in a highly organized manner.
Wenger revealed that he has already met with Pakistani representatives to discuss setting up a football academy, which he believes is a crucial first step in nurturing young talent and strengthening the sport’s foundation. When asked about visiting Pakistan, he expressed a strong desire to travel to the country, though he noted that managing a schedule across 211 FIFA member nations is challenging.
In the same event, FIFA President Gianni Infantino also reaffirmed his commitment to visiting Pakistan soon. Infantino mentioned he intends to fulfill a promise made to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to take practical steps for football development in the region. This high-level interest from FIFA leadership marks a potentially transformative era for Pakistani football.
