Senior figures in European football want Arsene Wenger to run for FIFA presidency against Gianni Infantino
Senior figures in European football want Arsene Wenger to challenge Gianni Infantino for the FIFA presidency, according to BBC Sport. Many are frustrated with the governing body's leadership and have called for an alternative, as he currently faces no opposition ahead of the next election.
Infantino is widely expected to secure re-election for a fourth and final term next year, despite criticism over the collapse of his controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) scheme. However, some influential figures believe Wenger could add the credibility and global appeal required to mount a serious challenge.
The former Arsenal manager has served as FIFA's chief of global football development since 2019, leaving the Gunners after 22 years in charge. Wenger has not indicated that he intends to challenge Infantino.
Nevertheless, his supporters believe his reputation across continents could make him an attractive alternative to Infantino. Other potential challengers, including UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and CONCACAF boss Victor Montagliani, are focusing on consolidating their positions.
Former FIFA and UEFA executive Alex Phillips believes Wenger could help put football's interests back at the centre of the organisation's priorities. Another senior European football official praised the Frenchman's understanding of development programmes, highlighting his respect in Asia and Africa.
Wenger has earned support across Africa by advocating more opportunities for the continent's players and backing an expanded World Cup. During the FFE controversy, the former AS Monaco manager publicly distanced himself from the abandoned proposal, insisting he learned about it only through media reports.
Wenger said FIFA's decision to withdraw the scheme was necessary, stressing the importance of transparency and integrity. However, his close relationship with Infantino could complicate any potential challenge.
Critics have also questioned whether the 76-year-old has the political experience required to secure support from FIFA's 211 member associations. Wenger would need nominations from at least five national associations and must declare he wants to run by November 18.
With Infantino still commanding considerable support, no one knows whether Wenger will enter the race, but his involvement could dramatically change the seemingly one-sided contest.