A coalition of current and former footballers has called for change at the top of FIFA, challenging President Gianni Infantino’s leadership amid growing controversy.
Former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre, a member of FIFA’s Players’ Voice Panel, issued a statement titled « Enough is Enough! » on Monday. The post, shared by England’s Lucy Bronze, France’s Emmanuel Petit, and David James, criticises Infantino’s plan to sell stakes in competitions like the World Cup to private investors.
« We have watched the game we love drift away from its core values under FIFA’s current leadership, » the statement reads. « Power has blurred the current leadership’s ability to distinguish between its own interests and what is best for football. »
The players demand a « real, direct say » for fans and athletes in decision-making, calling for structural reform from grassroots to the top.
Infantino under pressure
Infantino faces mounting pressure after UEFA threatened to boycott FIFA competitions, with European chief Aleksander Ceferin expecting his resignation or a challenge in March. England, Wales, and Scotland have withdrawn support.
However, Cameroon’s Samuel Eto’o has backed Infantino, praising his support for African football. « He’s given opportunities to nations that didn’t have those opportunities, » Eto’o told CNN.
As the rift deepens, the football world watches closely. The fight for the soul of the game is just beginning.
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