Premier League CEO calls for Fifa candidate who can unite confederations

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters called on FIFA to elect a new president and implement governance reforms amid the turmoil surrounding current president Gianni Infantino. Accusing Infantino of pressing the "self-destruct button" with his abandoned plan to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights, Masters urged any challenger to submit a proposal capable of uniting FIFA's confederations before the March 18 election deadline.

Masters stated that the crisis had highlighted the need to review FIFA's power structures and that part of any new offer should involve governance reform. He emphasized that while people from Europe should not dictate reforms to other parts of the world, it would be appropriate to reassess governance structures and the president's role in light of recent events.

The Premier League, which Masters said had never considered private equity deals similar to Infantino's failed plan, remains successful in media rights, boasting a significant market share. As the new season kicks off with Manchester City's coach Pep Guardiola leaving and nine new managers arriving, Masters acknowledged the season's intrigue and the emergence of new stars.

He expressed excitement about the league's potential transformation and encouraged the new managers to seize the opportunity.