Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has voiced strong support for the decision to abandon FIFA president Gianni Infantino's contentious proposal to sell a portion of the World Cup to private equity investors. Wenger described the move as "absolutely necessary and beyond question."

Wenger's Role at FIFA

Currently serving as FIFA's chief of global football development, a position he has held since 2019, Wenger has become a prominent critic of Infantino's plan. The proposal aimed to sell a 20 percent stake in the World Cup through the FIFA Forward Enterprise, which faced significant backlash from various football organizations. Three continental confederations ultimately rejected the initiative, compelling Infantino to abandon the idea.

Widespread Criticism

UEFA, the governing body for European football, was particularly vocal in its opposition, threatening to boycott the World Cup and other FIFA events if the plan proceeded. Wenger joined the growing list of critics, emphasizing his disapproval in a statement. He clarified his position by stating, "The recent events at FIFA deserve some clarity from my side."

In his role at FIFA, Wenger oversees various initiatives, including data analysis, youth education through academies in 60 countries, and youth competitions globally. He also serves as a technical adviser to IFAB. Notably, he indicated that he was not involved in the strategic plan and only became aware of it later.