FIFA President Gianni Infantino has summoned senior staff to a crisis meeting in Rabat, Morocco, in a desperate bid to retain his position amid mounting opposition to his plan to sell off competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors.
Wenger breaks rank
Arsene Wenger, FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development, publicly criticised the plan, stating that its withdrawal was 'absolutely necessary'. The former Arsenal manager said he was not involved in the strategic plan and first learned of it through media reports, adding that he firmly believes in an independent FIFA that serves the game with commitment, transparency, and integrity.
Allies urge support
Infantino's close allies have been urging the 211 member associations to publicly back him after some withdrew support for his re-election. One federation president accused him of 'blackmail'. The Times reports that a group of senior FIFA staff held a management meeting on Tuesday without Infantino, with all but one opposing the plan.
Secretary General's leaked email
Even Infantino's No.2, FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom, slammed the plan in a leaked email. He wrote: 'We have all been thrown into the middle of a turmoil, which is difficult to comprehend and accept, but, as Secretary General, I urge you to remain focused on what has always united us: serving football and serving our 211 member associations.'
Grafstrom also reassured staff that they would be 'defended and safeguarded from the political context' and that 'individuals, unstable moments and unfortunate episodes come and go. The institution, its mission and its responsibility towards world football continue.'
