SHOCK FIFA SUCCESSION PLAN? Premier League Icon Emerges as Infantino’s Potential Replacement
The future of FIFA has become one of the biggest talking points in world football after former Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan suggested that Arsène Wenger could be the ideal man to succeed Gianni Infantino as FIFA president.
Jordan’s comments come at a turbulent time for Infantino, whose leadership has faced growing criticism following the fallout from a controversial proposal involving FIFA’s commercial and operational rights. The plan was eventually withdrawn after significant opposition from football authorities and figures within the game.
Speaking about the situation, Jordan argued that Infantino should consider stepping aside and that Wenger possesses many of the qualities required to lead football’s global governing body.
The suggestion is particularly interesting because Wenger is no stranger to the highest levels of football. The former Arsenal manager is currently FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, a role that has kept him closely involved in the development of the sport around the world.
Jordan believes Wenger’s intelligence, experience and understanding of football could make him a strong candidate for the position.
And while Wenger has previously been associated with ideas that have divided opinion — including his support for a biennial World Cup — Jordan’s assessment is that the Frenchman has the leadership qualities required to oversee FIFA.
Why Arsène Wenger?
Wenger’s name carries enormous weight in football.
During his legendary spell at Arsenal, he transformed the club’s playing philosophy and became one of the most influential managers in Premier League history. His emphasis on technical football, youth development, sports science and recruitment helped shape the modern English game.
His experience extends well beyond the Premier League, too.
Wenger has worked across different football cultures and has spent years studying the development of the sport at an international level. Since joining FIFA, he has focused heavily on global football development, youth education and technical analysis.
That background could make him an intriguing figure if FIFA eventually enters a genuine succession battle.
However, it is important to stress that Wenger has not been announced as a candidate to replace Infantino. Jordan’s comments represent his own view about who should take the job rather than an official FIFA succession announcement.
Infantino Under Pressure
The discussion surrounding Wenger comes as pressure continues to build around Infantino.
The FIFA president’s proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative triggered a major backlash after plans emerged to reorganise aspects of the World Cup’s commercial and operational delivery and potentially involve private investment.
The proposal was subsequently withdrawn, but the controversy has continued to create political pressure around FIFA. UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF have all been involved in criticism of Infantino’s leadership, while several national associations have also expressed concerns.
The Scottish Football Association has even publicly withdrawn its support for Infantino’s re-election bid, adding another significant development to the growing FIFA leadership story.
With Infantino seeking another term, the question of whether he can maintain enough support is becoming increasingly important.
Wenger Breaks His Silence
Interestingly, Wenger himself has already addressed the controversy surrounding the failed proposal.
The Frenchman made clear that he was not involved in the strategic plan, explaining that he first learned about it through media reports.
Wenger also stressed his belief in an independent FIFA committed to transparency and integrity.
That statement has added another fascinating dimension to Jordan’s suggestion.
Wenger is currently part of the FIFA establishment, but his public distancing from the controversial proposal could make his position particularly interesting if the organisation’s leadership battle intensifies.
Could Wenger Really Become FIFA President?
For now, there is no indication that Wenger is preparing an official campaign to become FIFA president.
But Jordan’s comments have undoubtedly put his name into the conversation.
The FIFA presidency is one of the most powerful positions in sport, requiring a candidate capable of dealing with national associations, continental confederations, governments, clubs, players and commercial partners.
Wenger’s supporters could point to his decades of football experience and international reputation as major strengths.
His critics, meanwhile, could question whether being a hugely respected football manager automatically translates into the political and administrative skills needed to run FIFA.
Those debates would only become more intense if Wenger were ever to enter the race.
A Major FIFA Power Struggle?
What happens next could depend heavily on the political landscape inside world football.
Infantino remains FIFA president, but the recent controversy has clearly created a more challenging environment around his leadership. With the 2027 election approaching, speculation about potential alternatives is likely to continue.
And now, thanks to Simon Jordan, Arsène Wenger’s name has entered the conversation.
Whether the former Arsenal boss would actually want the job remains another question entirely.
For the moment, there is no confirmed Wenger candidacy and no announcement that Infantino is stepping down. But in football politics, speculation can quickly become something much bigger.
One thing is certain: the FIFA presidency is suddenly becoming one of the most fascinating stories in world football.
Could Arsène Wenger really go from Arsenal legend to FIFA president? The football world will be watching.