CORNERFLICK
Arsène Wenger has been mentioned as a possible rival to Gianni Infantino in next year’s FIFA presidential election, with opponents of the incumbent said to be trying to persuade him to stand.
Why Wenger’s name has surfaced
The Sunday Times reported that figures opposed to Infantino are looking at Wenger as a potential candidate. UEFA is also trying to settle on a nominee to face the FIFA president, but has yet to agree on one name.
Wenger, 76, has worked as FIFA’s director of global football development since 2019. Any move into the election would put him in direct competition with a man who has overseen the organisation during much of that period.
The wider contest
The row between FIFA and UEFA has sharpened in recent months. UEFA delegates at a meeting in Berlin called for reform at FIFA and for a leader with international credibility, a strong football background and independence in decision-making.
Aleksander Ceferin has said he will not stand for FIFA president, while Victor Montagliani has opted to continue leading Concacaf. The African confederation has said all 54 of its member associations back Infantino for another term.
The election takes place in Rabat on 18 March 2027. Candidates have until 18 November to submit their bids and need the backing of at least five national associations to enter the race.