Pakistan football could soon turn to a familiar face as it continues to fill coaching vacancies while bridging its men’s and women’s national setups. According to renowned journalist Faizan Lakhani, Adeel Rizki, current head coach of the Pakistan women’s football team, is being considered for a role on the men’s side, where he would work alongside newly appointed head coach Norberto Solano.
Rizki, who has played a crucial role in revitalising women’s football in Pakistan, could become Solano’s assistant coach ahead of the upcoming fixtures. Pakistan football is currently on the lookout for assistant roles after parting ways with Mehmood Khan and Gohar Zaman.
If appointed, Rizki’s inclusion would mark an important moment for the national setup, a coach who has worked at the heart of Pakistan’s grassroots and women’s game now stepping into a role supporting the men’s senior side. His potential partnership with Solano, the former Peru captain and Newcastle United midfielder, is being seen as a blend of international experience and domestic insight.
For Adeel Rizki, the opportunity would not only be a personal milestone but also a recognition of the strides Pakistan’s women’s football has made under his leadership. For the PFF, it signals a willingness to create greater synergy across its football programs at all levels.
The final decision on Rizki’s role is expected in the coming days as Solano shapes his backroom staff ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming international commitments.
