Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is reportedly considering a bid to become the next FIFA President, potentially setting up a high-profile contest against incumbent Gianni Infantino in the March 2027 election.
According to a BBC Sport report published on Tuesday, November 10, the 77-year-old Frenchman is giving serious consideration to entering the race after receiving encouragement from senior figures within European football.
Wenger, who currently serves as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, has emerged as a potential candidate backed by individuals seeking an alternative to Infantino’s leadership.
The former Arsenal boss joined FIFA in November 2019 after an illustrious managerial career that included 22 years at the Emirates Stadium, where he guided the North London club to three Premier League titles and seven FA Cup trophies.
His potential candidacy comes amid growing disagreements between FIFA and UEFA following controversy surrounding Infantino’s proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a commercial initiative that sought to involve private investors in FIFA’s commercial operations.
The proposal attracted opposition from several football confederations, including UEFA, before it was eventually withdrawn.
Wenger previously distanced himself from the controversial initiative, insisting that he had not been involved in its development.
In a statement addressing the matter on August 4, he said:
“The decision to withdraw the project was absolutely necessary and beyond question, because I firmly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our game with commitment, transparency and integrity.”
Despite growing interest in his possible candidacy, Wenger has not officially declared his intention to challenge Infantino.
According to reports, he has until November 18, 2026, to confirm his candidacy and would require nominations from at least five FIFA member associations to qualify for the presidential race.
Other individuals seeking to challenge Infantino include former Tottenham Hotspur defender Ramon Vega and Japan Football Association honorary president Kozo Tashima, who has already announced his intention to contest the election.
Infantino, who has been FIFA president since 2016, is seeking another term, with the election scheduled for March 18, 2027, during the FIFA Congress in Rabat, Morocco.
While Wenger enjoys considerable respect across the football community, his potential challenge could introduce a new dimension to the contest for leadership of world football.
