UEFA piles pressure on Infantino with expanded Nations League talks

UEFA is intensifying pressure on FIFA president Gianni Infantino by engaging in discussions about an expanded Nations League that would include non-European teams, according to recent reports. The English Press Association, citing initial information from The Guardian, reveals that UEFA is in talks with CONCACAF, the confederation representing North and Central American nations and the Caribbean.

These talks may result in an expanded Nations League as early as the 2028-29 edition, sources suggest. This development signifies a collaboration between UEFA and CONCACAF on continental competitions, distancing themselves from FIFA. UEFA presidents Aleksander Čeferin and Victor Montagliani are reportedly considering Infantino's resignation, expressing dissatisfaction with his failed plan to involve private investors in FIFA events.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is also reportedly participating in the discussions, potentially joining later. The proposed tournament would not require additional calendar space, with the league phase occurring in autumn 2028 and finals in March and June of the following year. Infantino is reportedly scheduled to attend a youth football event in the Dominican Republic this weekend, providing an opportunity to rally support from CONCACAF's Caribbean nations.

Some Caribbean nations, such as St Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, and Antigua and Barbuda, have reportedly voiced their support. Infantino's presence at the event could lead to an encounter with CONCACAF president Montagliani, a potential contender for the FIFA presidency.