European football officials are contemplating nominating Arsene Wenger, the legendary French footballer and former Arsenal manager, as a candidate to succeed Gianni Infantino as president of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). According to a report by The Times, Wenger's name is being considered for the top position in the wake of Infantino's potential departure in 2027. Wenger currently serves as the chief of global football development at FIFA.
Infantino, 56, has been FIFA president since 2016, when he was elected during an extraordinary congress following a corruption scandal that led to the downfall of his predecessor, Sepp Blatter. Since then, Infantino has been re-elected twice unopposed. The election to succeed him is scheduled for March 2027, with candidates required to submit their nominations by November 18 of this year. Wenger, who managed Arsenal for 22 years, has kept a low profile amid controversy surrounding FIFA.
Wenger's credentials make him a strong contender for the position. During his tenure at Arsenal, he won three English Premier League titles, seven FA Cups, and seven Community Shields. He also led the team to the Champions League final and the UEFA Cup final. Additionally, Wenger has managed Japanese club Nagoya Grampus, as well as French clubs Nancy and Monaco, winning the French league with the latter.
Victor Montagliani, president of the Confederation of North, Central and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF), is seen as a potential rival to Wenger but has stated that he does not plan to run for the FIFA presidency. To be eligible, a candidate must secure the support of at least five national associations. Wenger has not publicly commented on his potential candidacy but has expressed concerns about Infantino's plans to sell World Cup broadcasting rights to private investors.
Infantino's potential departure has sparked interest in the presidential election, with Wenger emerging as a prominent figure in the running. Wenger's experience in football administration and his success as a manager make him a compelling candidate. However, it remains to be seen whether he will officially throw his hat into the ring.
The election to succeed Infantino is expected to be closely watched, given the significant influence of the FIFA president on global football. Wenger's nomination would likely generate significant interest, given his reputation as one of the most successful managers in football history. Other candidates are also expected to emerge in the coming months.
The process to succeed Infantino is set to unfold over the next several months, with candidates required to submit their nominations by November 18. The election will take place at the FIFA congress in March 2027. Wenger's potential candidacy has already generated significant interest, and it remains to be seen how the election will play out.
Key points
- Europeans are considering nominating Arsene Wenger to succeed Gianni Infantino as FIFA president in 2027.
