Islamabad, Mar 12, 2025: Pakistan Football League (PFL) has announced financial aid and a career opportunity for Muhammad Riaz after a video of him selling jalebis went viral.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had earlier invited the former national footballer to his official residence following public concern over his struggles.
The 29-year-old, who represented Pakistan in the 2018 Asian Games, had been jobless since his former team, K-Electric, disbanded its football division.
A recent report by local media channel highlighted his plight, drawing widespread attention with government and Pakistan Football Federation came under severe criticism.
Moved by his story, PFL Chairman Farhan Junejo pledged Rs1 million in prize money for Riaz and assured him a key role in the league.
Junejo emphasized that Riaz’s case reflected the struggles of many talented footballers in Pakistan, who have been sidelined due to a lack of financial and structural support.
PFL Chairman stated that the body was committed to reviving football in Pakistan and ensuring that no deserving player was left behind.
According to him, Riaz’s story symbolized the untapped potential in the country’s football landscape, and PFL aimed to provide international training for players like him.
Expressing gratitude, Riaz acknowledged PFL’s efforts and vowed to work towards supporting other struggling players.
He reiterated that no athlete should face similar hardships and committed to promoting football at the grassroots level.
The disbandment of departmental football teams under the previous government’s policy had left numerous players jobless, with many resorting to alternative means of survival.
Despite the current administration’s directive to restore departmental sports, the effects of the decision remain evident in the struggles of players like Riaz.
PFL’s initiative aims not only to support Riaz but also to establish a sustainable system for footballers across Pakistan, ensuring their skills are recognized and nurtured for national and international success.
