In a historic move for Pakistani football, the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has appointed Arooj Sohail Butt as the manager of the Under-17 boys’ team. This marks the first time in the country’s football history that a woman has been assigned to manage a boys’ team.
Arooj Sohail Butt is currently serving as a safeguarding officer at the PFF and is a certified FIFA and AFC safeguarding officer. Her appointment reflects the PFF’s commitment to promoting gender equality in sports, aligning with FIFA’s policy of providing equal opportunities for all.
The decision was made as part of FIFA’s broader initiative to ensure inclusivity and diversity in football. The PFF hopes this step will inspire more women to take on leadership roles in sports and contribute to the growth of football in Pakistan.
The Pakistan Under-17 football team is set to participate in the SAFF Championship and Asian qualifiers later this year. This appointment not only breaks gender barriers but also highlights Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its football infrastructure and foster a more inclusive sporting environment.
