Wenger vs Infantino? Former Arsenal manager weighs an unexpected decision
Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Director of Global Football Development, is unlikely to run for the organisation’s presidency, French newspaper L’Équipe reports.
For the past two and a half months, the 76-year-old has been considering challenging incumbent FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Wenger was unhappy with some of the organisation’s leadership decisions and publicly distanced himself from the president, notably criticising the idea of selling shares in the World Cup.
The Frenchman, however, took a long time to reach a final decision. On the one hand, he felt it was necessary to prevent Infantino from being re-elected; on the other, he doubted he could take on FIFA’s existing power structure. Wenger also acknowledged that the presidency was a far cry from his familiar work on the pitch.
The Frenchman’s withdrawal would be a major setback for those hoping to put forward an alternative candidate. According to L’Équipe, Wenger was considered a suitable choice thanks to his reputation and long-standing ties with football federations around the world.
The deadline to submit candidacies is November 18. The FIFA Congress, where the election will be held, is scheduled for March 18 in Rabat, Morocco.
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
