Arsene Wenger, FIFA’s chief of global football development, has come under scrutiny for his public support of FIFA president Gianni Infantino amid ongoing controversy surrounding the future of the World Cup. Wenger, who marked the 10th anniversary of Infantino’s presidency in February by praising his leadership and openness to innovation, has been criticized for aligning closely with many of Infantino’s disputed initiatives.

Infantino’s tenure has included several notable and sometimes contentious changes to world football. These include hosting the 2022 World Cup in Qatar during the winter months, expanding the tournament to 48 teams in 2026 across North America, and proposing a further increase to 64 teams in 2030, to be played across six countries. Other initiatives such as introducing hydration breaks during matches have also sparked debate, with some observers suggesting these were motivated by commercial interests.

Among more controversial decisions under Infantino is the awarding of the FIFA Peace Prize to former U.S. President Donald Trump. Critics highlight that FIFA did not address issues such as the Iranian national team’s relocation to Mexico for training amid heightened tensions involving the U.S., nor the denied entry of Somali referee Omar Artan to the United States. Additionally, Infantino has been accused of attempting to effectively “sell” the World Cup rights to private investors in a deal reportedly valued at £3.1 billion, a move that has generated significant opposition, including threats of a boycott from UEFA and other member associations.

As a senior figure within FIFA, Wenger is viewed by some as a close ally of Infantino, frequently seen supporting the president’s initiatives and remaining silent on contentious subjects. Having left his role as Arsenal manager in 2018 after 22 years, Wenger joined FIFA in late 2019 and has since overseen projects such as the £160 million FIFA Talent Coach Programme, which aims to develop football talent in economically disadvantaged countries. He also leads a task force on player welfare, seeking to address concerns about the increasing demands placed on players by the packed football calendar. Notably, Wenger has suggested staging the World Cup every two years, a proposal that has raised questions about its potential impact on player welfare.

While Wenger has publicly endorsed changes like the expanded World Cup format, he has also acknowledged that some ideas, such as hydration breaks, have been controversial. However, critics argue that despite his influence and experience, Wenger has not challenged Infantino’s authority or controversial plans, including the proposed commercial restructuring of the tournament.

FIFA has issued statements denying that it is selling the World Cup or engaging in such practices, attempting to quell growing dissent. Still, calls for Infantino’s resignation have intensified amid the ongoing disputes. Wenger’s alignment with Infantino’s agenda has drawn mixed reactions, with some appreciating his work developing football globally, while others question whether his close association with FIFA’s leadership undermines his independent judgment within the sport’s governing body.