Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger is seriously considering a challenge to Gianni Infantino for the presidency of FIFA, according to reports.
The 77-year-old Frenchman, who has served as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development since 2019, has been urged by senior European football figures for several weeks to enter the race.
Sources close to Wenger told BBC Sport he has not yet reached a final decision but is giving the prospect careful thought. Candidates must declare their intention to stand by 18 November. The election is scheduled for 18 March 2027 at the FIFA Congress in Rabat, Morocco.
Infantino’s leadership has faced significant pressure following the collapse of his plan to sell commercial stakes in the World Cup to private investors amid widespread criticism.
Wenger publicly distanced himself from the abandoned 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.”
Some of Wenger’s backers have suggested they would accept him as a short-term president who could step down before serving a full four-year term. His long-standing reputation, particularly in Africa, is viewed as a potential strength.
Two other candidates have already declared interest: former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega and Japan Football Association honorary president Kozo Tashima.
Infantino has insisted he retains the support of the “vast, vast majority” of world football and remains the clear favourite to secure a fourth and final term. A formal challenge from Wenger would represent the most serious test of his authority since the World Cup commercial controversy trirender_inline_citation앉아citation_id thinly93 .
