Arsene Wenger has decided not to stand for the FIFA presidency, according to generally reliable journalist Ben Jacobs.
The former Arsenal manager had been widely tipped to challenge incumbent president Gianni Infantino, with UEFA presenting him as its preferred candidate. However, Wenger is understood to have told senior UEFA officials earlier this week that he would not seek the position.
His decision is a significant boost for Infantino, who is expected to face less prominent opposition in the election. Wenger had been regarded as a credible contender and could have relied on support from several European countries.
“He was perceived as a credible candidate,” Jacobs wrote.
Wenger has worked alongside Infantino at FIFA since 2019, when he was appointed director of football development following the departure of Marco van Basten. The pair have therefore collaborated for several years.
The deadline for candidates to submit their nominations is Wednesday 18 November.
Kozo Tashima, the former president of the Japan Football Association, had previously been identified as a possible alternative candidate. The Japanese has since confirmed that he will stand.
Former Swiss footballer Ramon Vega is also reported to be preparing a challenge to Infantino.
The FIFA presidential election will take place on 18 March 2027 in Rabat, Morocco.
