Luis Figo has called on Gianni Infantino to resign immediately, launching a scathing attack on the FIFA president's conduct. The Portuguese legend described Infantino's behaviour as "the lowest, most deceitful and cravenly self-interested behaviour" he has ever witnessed.
"And believe me, I have met some rogues in my time in the game," Figo said, before going on to describe Infantino as "a relic of the game's past." He accused Infantino of inflicting "a litany of abuses … on football's reputation" during a "reign of terrible self-interest."
Figo's Brutal Assessment
"Infantino has debased the office of FIFA President that he promised to elevate," said the former Barcelona and Real Madrid player. "He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest of the game he is supposed to serve. It is too late to save his dignity but it is not too late to save football. He should go. Now."
Figo's comments come amid intense backlash to Infantino's controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise Scheme, which has been widely condemned. The criticism has been relentless, with many calling for Infantino's departure.
Figo's Previous Candidacy
Figo briefly ran for the FIFA presidency in 2015, launching his candidacy at Wembley with backing from figures such as David Beckham and Jose Mourinho. He stood against Sepp Blatter but pulled out shortly before the May election. His manifesto included expanding the World Cup to 48 teams.
Now, some are wondering if Figo should step forward again, either to challenge Infantino or to succeed him. The main theme of the backlash has been that football belongs to the people and the fans. Fans would likely prefer a figurehead who understands the game rather than the politics of it.
Wenger's Potential Role
Arsene Wenger, FIFA's chief of global football development, denounced the FIFA Forward Enterprise Scheme but did not individually denounce Infantino. Some suggest Wenger could also stand against Infantino or succeed him, given his long-standing claims to have the game's best interests at heart.
While it remains unlikely, the more options from those who know about the game rather than the politics of the game, the better. And it would be good if those options included Figo.
