Pakistan U-20 midfielder and former U-17 captain Abdul Samad Khan has signed a two-year contract with Azerbaijani champions Qarabağ FK, marking a major milestone in his young career.
Samad will initially represent Qarabağ’s U17 and U19 teams as he continues his development in Azerbaijan’s competitive football system.
Samad earned the opportunity after impressing against Azerbaijan’s U17 and U20 national teams earlier this year. His performances caught the attention of local scouts, who invited him for a one-week trial with Qarabağ.
He impressed the club’s coaching staff during the trial and secured a two-year deal.
Samad began his football journey with Islamabad-based POPO FC in 2017 and spent eight years developing through the club’s youth system. He later established himself as a key member of Pakistan’s youth teams and has captained both the U17 and U20 national sides.
Primarily a central midfielder, Samad is also capable of playing on the wings. He has shown his attacking ability as well, scoring six goals for Pakistan’s U17 team.
POPO FC has described him as a humble, hardworking and mentally strong player who remains committed both on and off the field. The club hopes his move will inspire more young Pakistani footballers to pursue opportunities abroad.
Former Pakistan head coach Shehzad Anwar and POPO FC helped facilitate the transfer.
Qarabağ FK, commonly known as “The Horsemen,” is the most successful club in Azerbaijan, with 11 Premier League titles and eight Azerbaijan Cups.
The club is also a regular participant in European competitions and qualified for the UEFA Champions League league phase during the 2025–26 season.
Samad will now look to establish himself in Qarabağ’s youth setup and work toward earning a place in the club’s senior team.
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