Wenger says scrapping Infantino's World Cup plan was 'absolutely necessary'

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has declared the decision to abandon FIFA president Gianni Infantino's controversial plan to sell off a 20 per cent stake in the World Cup as "absolutely necessary and beyond question". Wenger, who serves as FIFA's chief of global football development, criticized Infantino's scheme on Tuesday, making it clear his opposition to the plan.

The French manager, who oversees various FIFA initiatives, was not involved in the strategic plan and first learned about it through media reports. Infantino proposed selling the stake through his FIFA Forward Enterprise, but the plan was widely criticized and rejected by three continental confederations. UEFA threatened to boycott FIFA competitions if Infantino persisted with his idea.

Wenger's statement comes after FIFA's chief operating officer, Kevin Lamour, alleged that staff at the organization were "deceived" by Infantino. Several European associations have withdrawn their support for Infantino, aiming to prevent him from remaining in power for another term. Infantino is set to seek re-election in March, needing 106 votes out of 211 members to win.

The Football Association of Wales and the English Football Association have confirmed they have withdrawn their support, with the latter believed to be writing to FIFA to update its position. FIFA rejected the plan due to widespread criticism and a loss of confidence in Infantino. European club groups have also expressed concerns about the scheme.