LONDON : According to BBC Sport, senior European football officials have been encouraging the 77-year-old Frenchman to enter the presidential race for several weeks, with Wenger now seriously weighing his options.

Wenger, who currently serves as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, has yet to make a final decision. However, his potential candidacy could pose a significant challenge to Infantino, who is seeking a fourth and final term in the March election.

Despite concerns over Wenger’s age and ability to complete a four-year term, some supporters have indicated they would back him even if he stepped down before the end of his tenure.

Infantino has come under increasing pressure following the collapse of a controversial proposal to sell commercial stakes in the FIFA World Cup to private investors.

The plan, known as FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), faced strong opposition from UEFA, which demanded greater transparency over the proposal and the decision-making process.

UEFA had set a November 2 deadline for FIFA to disclose details of the proposal. Although Infantino apologised for abandoning the plan during a council meeting, he reportedly failed to explain how it had been developed and requested that further questions be submitted in writing.

FIFA has since announced that relevant documents would be made available to council members at its Zurich headquarters, subject to strict viewing conditions.

Wenger, previously regarded as a close ally of Infantino, has publicly distanced himself from the controversy.

“I was not involved in this strategic plan and only learned about it through media reports,” Wenger said.

He also defended the decision to abandon the proposal, stating: “The decision to withdraw the proposal was absolutely necessary and indisputable. I firmly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our game with commitment, transparency, and integrity.”

While Infantino continues to enjoy strong backing across South America, Africa and Asia, Wenger could attract significant support from UEFA and other football officials seeking a change in leadership.

Wenger’s international reputation, particularly in Africa, could also strengthen his candidacy. During his time at Arsenal, he was widely recognised for supporting African footballers and later backed the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams, a move welcomed by several African nations.

However, his tenure at FIFA has not been without controversy, particularly over proposals for a biennial World Cup and changes to the offside rule.

Meanwhile, former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega announced his presidential candidacy in October, while Japan Football Association honorary president Kōzō Tashima has also expressed interest in contesting the election.

Candidates have until November 18 to enter the race.

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