The Afghan Champions League (ACL) has become an unexpected lifeline for Pakistani footballers seeking competitive opportunities amidst a dire situation at home. This season, four Pakistani players have stepped onto Afghan soil to showcase their talent: Alamgir Ghazi (midfielder), Haseeb Ahmad Khan (defender), Shayek Dost (forward), and Mamoon Moosa Khan (defender). Their journey to Afghanistan highlights not just their individual ambitions but also the harsh realities of Pakistani football.

Breaking New Ground

The 2024 Afghan Champions League kicked off in April, marking another chapter in regional football. Among the Pakistani players making waves, Shayek Dost stands out as a trailblazer. The national team forward joined ACL club Abu Muslim earlier in the season and has continued to impress. Shayek was the first Pakistani to sign for the league and has played a pivotal role for Abu Muslim in the early rounds of the competition.

In February 2024, center-back Abdullah Shah followed Shayek to Abu Muslim, signing a one-season deal. Together, they have made three appearances for the club, symbolizing a growing Pakistani presence in the league.

A Wave of New Signings

Recently, Adalat Farah FC made headlines by signing Alamgir Ghazi, Mamoon Moosa Khan, Haseeb Ahmad Khan, and Shayek Dost. This significant move adds to the growing list of Pakistani talent crossing borders. Fareed Ullah has also joined Abu Muslim FC, while Adeel Younis represents Khurasan FC, further emphasizing the exodus of talent from Pakistan.

Why Are Pakistani Players Looking Abroad?

The migration of Pakistani players to the Afghan Champions League reflects the grim state of football at home. With no functioning domestic league, players have little choice but to look elsewhere. The Pakistan Premier League, once a symbol of hope, has fallen apart, leaving behind broken promises and unfulfilled dreams.

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The much-hyped Pakistan Football League (PFL), a private venture, has proven to be another false dawn. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) continues to promise national team tours but has yet to deliver. Under the leadership of Haroon Malik, the PFF has failed to provide a stable platform for players, leaving them frustrated and worried about their careers. For many, these are their prime years, and sitting idle is simply not an option.

The Bigger Picture

This exodus to Afghanistan is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides players with much-needed game time and exposure. On the other, it underscores the failure of Pakistan’s footballing ecosystem to nurture its own talent. The Afghan Champions League, while a stepping stone, is not a long-term solution for the development of Pakistani football.

As fans, it’s disheartening to see our national players forced to find opportunities abroad due to the lack of a functioning system at home. This situation raises serious questions about the priorities of those in charge and the future of football in Pakistan.

What Do You Think?

The story of these players is one of resilience and determination, but it also highlights the systemic issues plaguing Pakistani football. Share your thoughts on this development. Is this a wake-up call for Pakistani football authorities, or is it merely a sign of things to come? Let us know in the comments!