Former Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, has distanced himself from the failed attempt by the FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
Wenger works with FIFA as the Chief of Global Football Development.
The Frenchman has now explained the role he played at the world football governing body and how he became aware of Infantino’s plot.
The statement read: “The recent events at FIFA deserve some clarity from my side.
“At FIFA, I am the Chief of Global Football Development.
“Together with my team, I oversee the data analysis of the game, the FIFA online training centre, the development of youth education through 60 academies across 60 countries where they are most needed, and youth competitions around the world.
“In addition, I am a technical adviser to IFAB.
“I was not involved in this strategic plan and first became aware of the project through media reports.
“The decision to withdraw the project was absolutely necessary and beyond question, because I firmly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our game with commitment, transparency, and integrity.”
Wenger releases statement on Infantino’s failed attempt to sell World Cup stakes