Youth teams take centre stage in Afghanistan Under-17 Champions League

The Afghanistan Under-17 Champions League, which got underway this week in Kabul, is providing a platform for some of the country’s most promising young footballers as clubs from across the country compete for the national youth title while helping develop the next generation of talent.

The tournament is designed to give under-17 players regular competitive match experience and create a pathway to senior club football and Afghanistan’s national youth teams.

Among the participating clubs is Kabul-based Arman FC, which says its involvement reflects its commitment to grassroots football and youth development.

“We proudly announce that Arman FC under-17 football team is participating in the Afghanistan Under-17 Champions League to develop grassroots football in Afghanistan and to encourage the youth of the country,” the club said in a statement.

Several of the club’s young players have spoken about what the competition means to them and their ambitions for the future.

Midfielder Shahzad Sharifi said he began playing football at the age of 12 before progressing through several youth teams, eventually earning a place at Arman FC alongside his brother, Mir Agha Sharifi.

“I now play in central midfield alongside my brother Mir Agha Sharifi, who is my role model. I promise Arman FC fans that one day I will take over the captain’s armband from my brother,” he said.

Forward Erfan Arzbegi said he hopes to use the tournament as a stepping stone to higher levels of the game.

“It is our dream to progress from the U-17 team to Arman FC’s senior squad, where we can further develop our game and eventually earn a place in Afghanistan’s senior national team and the U-23 national team,” he said.

Teammate Samiullah Aimaq, who previously played in Kunduz before joining Arman FC, said representing the club in the national youth championship was another important milestone in his football career.

“My dream is to one day play for Arman FC’s senior team as well as Afghanistan’s national teams at different age levels and bring pride to my country,” he said.

Youth competitions are regarded as an important part of Afghanistan’s football development, giving emerging players valuable competitive experience while allowing clubs to identify and nurture future senior talent.

The Afghanistan Under-17 Champions League features youth teams from clubs across the country and is expected to play a key role in strengthening the country’s football development pathway.