Arsène Wenger nearing decision on FIFA presidency bid

Arsène Wenger is nearing a decision on whether to run for FIFA president and challenge incumbent Gianni Infantino in the election scheduled for 18 March in Rabat, according to French newspaper L'Équipe.

According to the newspaper, Wenger, 77, who is FIFA’s director of global football development, is expected to settle his position by the middle of next week, following meetings aimed at persuading him to run. It said he is now closer to agreeing, after long hesitation.

Wenger said, according to L'Équipe, that he was still waiting, but would not prolong it, indicating that his final decision was close. The report said his profile, experience and popularity in Africa and Asia, along with his lack of ties to UEFA, could encourage national associations to support him.

Infantino is seeking another term, while Japan’s Kozo Tashima and Switzerland’s Ramon Vega have announced their candidacies to challenge him in the upcoming election.