Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has ruled himself out of the race to challenge Gianni Infantino for the FIFA presidency, according to BBC Sport on Sunday.
The Frenchman had been considering a bid for the position but has decided not to stand against the current FIFA president, according to sources who spoke to BBC Sport.
Wenger’s decision is seen as a major boost for Infantino as he seeks a fourth term in office.
The former Arsenal boss, who currently serves as FIFA’s head of global development, was reportedly viewed as a strong alternative candidate and could have received backing from the European football governing body, UEFA.
UEFA has been among the leading critics of Infantino following the controversy surrounding his failed plan to sell commercial stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
Wenger had previously distanced himself from the proposal, insisting that he was not involved in the strategic plan and only learnt about it through media reports.
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He also described FIFA’s decision to withdraw the project as necessary, stressing the importance of transparency, integrity and independence in football administration.
Meanwhile, UEFA is reportedly still searching for an alternative candidate before Wednesday’s nomination deadline.
Former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega and Japan Football Association honorary president Kozo Tashima have both expressed interest in contesting the election.
However, Tashima is yet to secure the required five endorsements from member associations, although sources say he remains determined to pursue his candidacy.
Infantino, meanwhile, continues to enjoy support from South America, Africa and Asia, and recently claimed that he has the backing of the vast majority of world football.
PUNCH Online had reported that Wenger was seriously considering a challenge to Gianni Infantino for the presidency of FIFA.
