Pakistan U-20 midfielder Abdul Samad Khan has taken a major step in his football career by signing a two-year contract with Azerbaijani champions Qarabağ FK. The move gives the young footballer an opportunity to continue his development with an International Club competing at a high level.
The 19-year-old will initially play for Qarabağ FK’s U17 and U19 teams. The International Club plans to develop his skills before considering him for promotion to the senior squad.
Abdul Samad earned this opportunity after delivering impressive performances against Azerbaijan’s U17 and U20 national teams earlier this year. His displays attracted the attention of local scouts, who invited him to attend a one-week trial with Qarabağ FK.
During the trial, Samad impressed the coaching staff with his technical ability, work rate, and overall performance. His successful trial resulted in a two-year agreement with the Azerbaijani champions.
The move marks an important achievement for Pakistani football. Joining an International Club like Qarabağ FK provides Samad with the chance to gain valuable experience in a more competitive football environment.
Samad started his football journey with Islamabad-based POPO FC in 2017. He spent eight years progressing through the club’s youth development system before establishing himself as one of Pakistan’s most promising young footballers.
Over the years, he became a regular member of Pakistan’s youth national teams. He also captained both the Pakistan U17 and U20 sides, demonstrating leadership on and off the field.
Although he mainly plays as a central midfielder, Samad is also comfortable operating on the wings. His attacking ability has also been evident during his youth career. He scored six goals while representing Pakistan’s U17 national team.
POPO FC praised Samad for his discipline, humility, and strong work ethic. The club described him as a dedicated player who remains committed to improving both as a footballer and as an individual.
Club officials believe his move to an International Club will encourage more young Pakistani players to pursue opportunities overseas. They hope his success will inspire future generations to work hard and aim for professional careers abroad.
Former Pakistan head coach Shehzad Anwar, along with POPO FC, played an important role in facilitating the transfer. Their support helped complete the move after Samad’s successful trial in Azerbaijan.
Qarabağ FK is one of Azerbaijan’s most successful football clubs. Commonly known as “The Horsemen,” the club has won 11 Azerbaijan Premier League titles and eight Azerbaijan Cups.
The club also competes regularly in European tournaments. During the 2025–26 season, Qarabağ FK qualified for the league phase of the UEFA Champions League, further highlighting its strong reputation in European football.
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Samad will now focus on establishing himself in the club’s youth system while working toward earning a place in the senior team. His move represents another positive moment for Pakistani football and demonstrates that talented players can earn opportunities at the international level through consistent performances and hard work.
