UEFA Lobbies Wenger to Challenge Infantino for FIFA Presidency

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is seriously considering a challenge to Gianni Infantino for the presidency of FIFA, with senior figures in European football lobbying the 77-year-old Frenchman to stand as an alternative to the incumbent.

The development, first reported by BBC Sport, comes as Infantino’s leadership faces its most serious test since the collapse of his plan to sell commercial stakes in the World Cup to private investors, ValidViewNetwork reports .

THE CONSIDERATION

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Wenger, who has served as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development since 2019, is being urged by UEFA and other stakeholders to put himself forward ahead of the November 18 deadline for candidates.

Sources close to Wenger say he has not yet reached a final decision but is giving the prospect careful thought. Some of his supporters have suggested they would be happy for him to win the election and then stand down before serving a full four-year term, given his age.

THE CONTEXT

Infantino’s position was plunged into crisis by the backlash over the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal, which would have seen the organisation sell a stake in its event and commercial operations, including the World Cup, to private investors.

The scheme was rejected by three continental confederations, including UEFA, and although Infantino subsequently abandoned it, the European governing body said it had “lost confidence” in the Swiss administrator .

Wenger publicly distanced himself from the proposal. “I was not involved in this strategic plan and first became aware of the project through media reports,” he said. “The decision to withdraw the project was absolutely necessary and beyond question, because I firmly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our game with commitment, transparency and integrity”.

THE CANDIDATES

Two other candidates have already declared their intention to stand: former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega and Japan Football Association honorary president Kozo Tashima.

Prospective candidates must secure the backing of five national associations to run. To beat Infantino, a challenger would need 106 votes from FIFA’s 211 member associations at the FIFA Congress in March 2027 .

WHY IT MATTERS

Arsene Wenger is one of the most respected figures in world football. He managed Arsenal for 22 years, won three Premier League titles, and revolutionised English football with his emphasis on attacking play, nutrition, and youth development. He is also a global figure, admired in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, not just in Europe.

But respect does not always translate into votes. Infantino has spent years cultivating relationships with national associations across the world. He has increased funding, expanded the World Cup, and built a network of loyal supporters. He retains strong backing in Africa, Asia, South America, and the Caribbean.

Wenger’s strength is his reputation. His weakness is his lack of political experience. He has never run for office, never campaigned, never negotiated the deals and alliances that are the currency of FIFA politics.

The election is in March. The deadline for candidates is November 18. Wenger has a week to decide. And the future of FIFA may hinge on his choice. ValidViewNetwork reports.