Arsene Wenger, the former Arsenal manager who now serves as FIFA's chief of global football development, is seriously considering challenging Gianni Infantino for the presidency of world football's governing body, according to sources close to the situation.
For weeks, senior figures in European football have been urging the Frenchman to enter the race, and Wenger is now giving the prospect careful thought. His potential candidacy comes at a time when Infantino's leadership has been rocked by a backlash over his failed proposal to sell commercial stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
Infantino's Support Base
Despite the controversy, Infantino retains significant support across South America, Africa, and Asia, and he recently claimed to have the backing of the "vast, vast majority" of world football. However, that support could be tested if Wenger decides to stand.
Wenger, who joined FIFA in 2019, would likely have the backing of UEFA, which has spearheaded opposition to Infantino. He is also widely respected throughout the football world, adding weight to any potential challenge.
Wenger's Decision
Sources close to Wenger say he has not yet made a final decision, and they still believe Infantino would be the favourite to win a fourth and final term in next year's election. Wenger is 77, but some senior figures in the European game have told the BBC that they would be happy for him to win the election and then step down before serving a full four-year term.
The deadline for candidates to confirm their intention to stand against Infantino in the March election is 18 November. So far, Japan Football Association honorary president Kozo Tashima has announced his intention to run, and former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega became the first person to put his name forward in October.
Transparency Concerns
The controversy surrounding Infantino's plan to sell stakes in the World Cup continues to simmer. This month, FIFA said that "key documents" relating to the proposal would be made available to members of its council, but they will have to travel to its Zurich base, and access will be under "strict protocols".
Last month, UEFA gave FIFA until 2 November to release details about the controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal and to answer questions about its decision-making. That ultimatum followed a council meeting at which Infantino apologised for the abandoned sell-off plot but failed to explain how the proposal was devised, instead asking that questions be submitted in writing.
As the deadline for candidates approaches, the football world watches closely to see whether Wenger will enter the fray, potentially reshaping the future of FIFA's leadership.
