ISLAMABAD – Peruvian football great Nolberto Solano has landed in Pakistan to kick off his first assignment as head coach of both the senior national side and the U23 squad. His immediate challenge will be preparing the team for the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers.
The former Premier League star, who played under Diego Maradona at Boca Juniors and went on to shine for Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and West Ham, has replaced English coach Stephen Constantine. Constantine famously helped Pakistan qualify for the second round of FIFA World Cup qualifiers in 2023.
Speaking upon his arrival, Solano said he was “honored” to lead Pakistan football: “It won’t be easy, but with hard work and the right mindset, we can compete at the highest level. Qualifying for the U23 Asian Cup would be a great moment for Pakistan.”
Pakistan is grouped with Iraq, Cambodia, and Oman in the qualifiers. The Green Shirts open their campaign against Iraq on September 3, face hosts Cambodia on September 6, and play Oman on September 9.
At the PFF headquarters in Lahore, Solano was welcomed by Acting Secretary Muhammad Shahid Niaz Khokhar, who described the appointment as “historic.” Khokhar praised Solano’s passion for developing Pakistan football and his experience as both a player and coach.
PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani also expressed his support: “We are confident that Coach Solano’s expertise will help strengthen Pakistan’s football structure and inspire our players to perform on the international stage.”
The national training camp began on August 14 in Abbottabad with 50 shortlisted players. The final squad of 23 will be confirmed ahead of the qualifiers.