Gianni Infantino Loses Key Figures as Wenger Claims Ignorance

A FIFA executive committee member and head of global development has labeled the shelving of a nascent proposal to sell stakes in future World Cup profits to private investors as "absolutely essential."

Wenger's statement regarding the controversial plan came after UEFA threatened FIFA with legal action.

"I was not involved in this strategic plan, and I only learned about the project through the media," Wenger stated, according to the Associated Press. The 76-year-old Frenchman took on the role of FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development in 2019. "The decision to withdraw this project was absolutely essential and undeniable. I firmly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our sport with dedication, transparency, and integrity," Wenger added.

The FIFA head had aimed to create a commercial entity open to private investors, who would acquire a 20 percent stake. Infantino ultimately backed down from the proposal on Saturday after its public disclosure sparked significant criticism. UEFA, along with its 55 member associations, had previously considered boycotting FIFA events and competitions if the plan remained active.