Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor l Journalist at Weng Global
Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger is considering entering the race for FIFA president, potentially setting up a major leadership contest against incumbent Gianni Infantino ahead of the organisation’s presidential election scheduled for March 2027.
The 77-year-old French football administrator is among several potential candidates being considered by European football officials seeking an alternative to Infantino, whose leadership has faced growing criticism following disagreements over FIFA’s governance and commercial plans.
According to reporting by the Press Association, Wenger has been deliberating over whether to contest the presidency for several weeks but has yet to make a final decision.
Although he is regarded as a potentially influential challenger because of his international reputation and experience within FIFA, he is not currently considered UEFA’s preferred candidate. Other possible contenders remain under consideration.
The development could introduce a significant new dimension to the forthcoming FIFA presidential election, particularly as European football authorities attempt to build support behind a candidate capable of challenging Infantino.
Wenger Emerges as Potential Challenger to Infantino
Wenger’s name has gained attention as UEFA explores possible alternatives to Infantino ahead of the next presidential election.
The former Arsenal manager spent 22 years at the English Premier League club, where he became one of the most influential coaches in modern football.
He left Arsenal in 2018 after winning three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups, including the club’s historic unbeaten league campaign during the 2003–04 season.
In November 2019, Wenger joined FIFA as Chief of Global Football Development, taking responsibility for initiatives designed to strengthen football development across different regions.
His position within FIFA has given him considerable knowledge of the organisation’s administration, international football development programmes and institutional structures.
Supporters of a possible Wenger candidacy reportedly believe his reputation across different football communities could make him a credible alternative to Infantino.
However, challenging an incumbent FIFA president would require more than international recognition. Wenger would need sufficient support from national football associations and a convincing electoral strategy to compete for the leadership of world football’s governing body.
Disagreements Over FIFA’s Commercial Plans
The possibility of Wenger challenging Infantino comes amid tensions surrounding FIFA’s proposed commercial initiative, known as FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE).
The proposal involved establishing a commercial structure connected to FIFA’s competitions and attracting private investment through the sale of a minority stake.
The initiative attracted opposition from several football governing bodies, including UEFA, which raised concerns about the organisation’s proposed commercial direction.
Infantino subsequently abandoned the plan following criticism from stakeholders within international football.
The controversy contributed to growing disagreements between FIFA’s leadership and sections of the European football community.
Wenger also publicly distanced himself from the proposal in August 2026, explaining that he had not participated in developing the initiative and had first learned about it through media reports.
He described its withdrawal as necessary and emphasised the importance of maintaining an independent FIFA committed to transparency and integrity.
His comments attracted attention because of his senior position within FIFA and his longstanding professional relationship with Infantino.
UEFA’s Search for a Credible Alternative
UEFA’s efforts to identify a challenger have intensified as disagreements with FIFA’s leadership continue.
The European governing body has expressed concerns about Infantino’s administration, particularly following the controversy surrounding FIFA Forward Enterprise.
In October 2026, UEFA sought answers from FIFA concerning 42 questions covering 12 areas of concern, including the abandoned commercial initiative and the FIFA Peace Prize.
According to Reuters, UEFA General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis requested that FIFA provide answers before its December Council meeting, arguing that questions about previous decisions should not be postponed. Reuters +1
The disagreement reflects wider tensions over transparency, accountability and the management of international football.
UEFA is therefore considering individuals who could potentially unite European football associations and attract support from other regions.
Wenger’s experience, international reputation and understanding of FIFA’s internal operations make him an interesting possibility. Nevertheless, the organisation has not formally announced him as its chosen candidate.
Infantino Still Has Significant International Support
Despite the controversy, Infantino remains a powerful figure in international football administration.
He has served as FIFA president since February 2016 and is seeking another term in office.
His support across Africa, Asia, South America and Oceania could make any challenge particularly difficult.
The BBC reported on November 10 that Infantino retains considerable backing in these regions, although a Wenger candidacy could test the strength of that support.
The African football community is particularly important because the continent is represented by 54 national football associations within FIFA’s 211-member structure.
Infantino has received significant support from African football leaders, including backing from all 54 African member associations, according to earlier BBC reporting.
For Wenger, attracting support beyond Europe would be essential if he hopes to mount a serious challenge.
His previous work in football development, including his advocacy for expanding opportunities for countries outside traditional football powers, could become relevant in discussions with African and other developing football associations. BBC Sport +1
What Would Wenger Bring to FIFA?
Wenger’s potential candidacy would introduce a different profile into the contest.
Unlike candidates whose careers have been concentrated primarily on football administration, Wenger built his international reputation through decades of coaching and football development.
His managerial career included successful spells at Monaco, Arsenal and other clubs, but his greatest influence came during his 22-year tenure in North London.
At Arsenal, he helped transform the club’s playing philosophy, training methods, nutrition standards and approach to player development.
His experience in Japan, England and international football development also gives him an understanding of football cultures beyond Europe.
Since joining FIFA, he has been involved in initiatives aimed at improving technical development and expanding opportunities for young players.
However, football expertise alone does not guarantee electoral success.
The FIFA presidency requires political relationships, institutional support and the ability to build consensus among national associations with different priorities.
A Wenger campaign would therefore need to demonstrate how his leadership could address governance concerns while maintaining FIFA’s global development responsibilities.
FIFA Presidential Election: The Important Dates
The next FIFA presidential election is scheduled to take place during the 77th FIFA Congress in Rabat, Morocco, on March 18, 2027.
Infantino has already indicated that he intends to seek re-election.
The nomination deadline for prospective candidates is November 18, 2026, making the coming days particularly important for anyone considering entering the contest.
Under FIFA’s presidential nomination requirements, a candidate needs the support of at least five member associations.
Kozo Tashima, honorary president of the Japan Football Association, has also announced his intention to contest the presidency.
Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Ramon Vega has previously declared his candidacy as well.
The election could therefore develop into a contest involving several candidates rather than a straightforward challenge between Wenger and Infantino. The Irish Times +2
Why the Possible Wenger Candidacy Matters to Africa
The leadership contest could have important implications for African football.
Africa has 54 FIFA member associations, making its collective voting strength significant in any presidential election.
The continent also has a major interest in FIFA’s football development programmes, infrastructure funding, youth competitions and opportunities for African national teams to compete internationally.
Wenger has previously expressed support for expanding opportunities for African football and developing countries more broadly.
His potential candidacy could therefore create discussions about how FIFA distributes development resources, strengthens grassroots football and improves opportunities for emerging football nations.
However, African football associations will ultimately make their decisions based on their institutional interests, relationships and assessment of the candidates.
A change in FIFA leadership would not automatically guarantee different outcomes for African football. Any candidate seeking support from the continent would need to present credible commitments on funding, development, transparency and representation.
What Happens Next?
Wenger’s immediate decision is whether to enter the presidential contest before the November 18 nomination deadline.
UEFA is also expected to continue discussions with its member associations as it considers which candidate could receive its backing.
If Wenger decides to contest the election, he will need nominations from at least five FIFA member associations and must satisfy the organisation’s eligibility requirements.
If he declines, UEFA could consider supporting another candidate, including individuals already associated with the developing presidential race.
For now, there is no official announcement confirming that Wenger will challenge Infantino.
The coming days could determine whether the former Arsenal manager moves from being a potential candidate to a serious contender for the leadership of world football.
The election in Rabat in March 2027 will ultimately determine whether Infantino retains his position or FIFA enters a new chapter under different leadership.
Weng Global – Stories beyond borders
Sources
1. The Irish Times / Press Association – Arsène Wenger considering opposing Gianni Infantino for FIFA presidency
2. BBC Sport – Wenger considers standing against Infantino
3. Reuters – UEFA demands answers from FIFA over Infantino presidency
4. FIFA – 77th FIFA Congress and 2027 presidential election
5. The Independent – Arsène Wenger considering shock bid to challenge Gianni Infantino for FIFA presidency
