The secretive proposal to sell tournament stakes drew criticism from UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation, forcing Infantino to reverse course. His opponents are now pushing for him to leave after 10 years in charge.
UEFA are said to be "accelerating" plans to remove the Swiss, and FIFA insiders believe he is now "certain" to go. If Infantino does not resign, his opponents may attempt to force a vote of no confidence in his leadership or back a rival in the upcoming FIFA presidential election.
Candidates have until November 18 to put their names forward for the election next year. Here are five possible contenders.
Victor Montagliani
The Canadian, president of CONCACAF, has emerged as one of the main contenders. CONCACAF rejected FIFA's private investment proposal but was less critical in its wording than UEFA. Montagliani, a long-time Infantino ally, had not planned to challenge him before the scandal and had an eye on the role in 2031. His involvement in the World Cup has raised his profile, and he is said to have support beyond his own federation. The 60-year-old was the first non-Caribbean CONCACAF president since 1969 when he took over.
Nasser al-Khelaifi
The Paris Saint-Germain president and head of the European Football Clubs umbrella group is one of the most powerful figures in football, with many allies. But a source has said he has "absolutely no ambition, no intention, nor any interest in this role at FIFA." The chances of him changing his mind appear even less likely after the Qatar Football Association issued a statement backing Infantino on Sunday.
Mattias Granstrom
FIFA general secretary Granstrom is seen as the most likely internal candidate to step up. He lacks the profile of other candidates but has reportedly not been tarnished by Infantino's plan, which could help him gain support if he decides to run.
Dariusz Mioduski
The Polish lawyer, vice-president of the European Football Clubs body and president-owner of Legia Warsaw, has emerged as a name in recent days. According to a talkSPORT report earlier this month, he has been backed by the Belgian, Spanish, Norwegian, German and Swedish associations. With UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin reportedly unwilling to challenge for the presidency, Mioduski could become the European candidate.
Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa
The Asian Football Confederation president is another possible candidate despite initial reluctance. The AFC released a statement saying it "stands in solidarity" with UEFA and CONCACAF, but its words were less fiery, and there is reportedly less conviction in the region's opposition to Infantino's plans. The Bahraini, who has led the AFC since 2013, remains an uncertain contender.
