{
  "id": 19443956,
  "title": "Wenger considers standing against Infantino",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/11/wenger-considers-standing-against-infantino",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-11T04:31:23.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Adom Online",
    "slug": "adom-online",
    "url": "https://www.adomonline.com/wenger-considers-standing-against-infantino/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is contemplating a run against FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the upcoming presidential election. European football insiders have been hoping for Infantino to join the race, and now Wenger is seriously considering it. The 77-year-old faces questions about his ability to provide long-term leadership for the sport. However, some supporters believe that if he were to win, he should step down before serving a full four-year term. Infantino's position has been shaken by criticism surrounding his failed attempt to sell commercial rights in the World Cup to private investors. Despite this setback, he still enjoys support in South America, Africa, and Asia, with the World Football Confederation backing him as the \"vast, vast majority\" of world football. Infantino's candidacy could be challenged if Wenger decides to stand, as he would have Uefa's backing and credibility worldwide. The deadline for candidates to confirm their intention to run against Infantino is 18 November. Other potential candidates include Ramon Vega and Japan Football Association honorary president Kozo Tashima. Recently, FIFA revealed that key documents related to Infantino's controversial plan to sell stakes in the World Cup would be made available to council members, but access would require travel to Zurich under strict protocols. Uefa has requested the release of details about the aborted Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal, demanding that questions be submitted in writing following Infantino's apology for the failed plot. Former club manager Wenger, who had initially supported Infantino, distanced himself from the abandoned plan, stating that it was \"absolutely necessary\" to withdraw due to a commitment to an independent FIFA that prioritizes transparency and integrity. Wenger's past proposals for biennial World Cups and a \"daylight\" offside law have occasionally caused controversy, but his global profile, particularly in Africa, has been bolstered by Infantino's recent re-election boost.",
  "summary": "Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is considering standing against Gianni Infantino as a candidate in Fifa’s presidential election. For weeks, senior figures in European football have been hoping the Frenchman would run for the job, and he is now giving it serious thought. Wenger is 77, leading to questions over whether he could provide long-term […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 5,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "BBC Sport",
        "title": "Wenger considers standing against Infantino",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/10/wenger-considers-standing-against-infantino",
        "published": "2026-11-10T08:44:12.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "KahawaTungu",
        "title": "Arsene Wenger Considers Challenging Gianni Infantino for Fifa Presidency",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/10/arsene-wenger-considers-challenging-gianni-infantino-for-fifa",
        "published": "2026-11-10T10:10:36.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Punch Nigeria",
        "title": "Wenger considers challenging Infantino for FIFA presidency — Report",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/10/wenger-considers-challenging-infantino-for-fifa-presidency-report",
        "published": "2026-11-10T10:43:03.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "MyJoyOnline Ghana",
        "title": "Wenger considers standing against Infantino",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/10/wenger-considers-standing-against-infantino-19415925",
        "published": "2026-11-10T23:27:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}