FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development and former Arsenal FC coach Arsène Wenger has highlighted the immense football talent in Pakistan and hinted at plans to establish a football academy in the country.
Speaking to media on the sidelines of the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Wenger said Pakistan’s population is its greatest strength. “With 250 million people, Pakistan is a major country in terms of talent, where football can be promoted in an organised way,” he noted.
Wenger revealed that he had met with Pakistani representatives to discuss the establishment of a football academy, which he described as a crucial first step for training young players and strengthening the sport’s foundation in the country.
Responding to a question about visiting Pakistan, Wenger said he is eager to come, but with 211 countries in the world and limited time, scheduling is challenging. “However, my desire and plan to visit Pakistan certainly exist,” he added.
The announcement comes alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s recent statement that he will visit Pakistan soon. Infantino said he plans to honour his promise to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and take practical steps to develop football in the country.
