Macron's domestic support could strengthen Wenger in the FIFA race

An archive photo shows former FC‑Arsenal‑trainer Arsène Wenger on the left and the French president Emmanuel Macron on the right, while the headline “Support from Home?” hints at a possible alliance. Shortly before the application deadline for the FIFA presidency, Macron is said to actively offer his support to the 77‑year‑old Wenger.

Macron's alleged support for Wenger

The Telegraph reports that Macron has pledged his backing in a campaign by the former Arsenal‑trainer. Unnamed sources say the 48‑year‑old president wants to win over other heads of state and government for Wenger's candidacy.

In addition, Macron is said to have contacted Wenger personally to persuade him to submit his candidacy. The German Press Agency and The Athletic write that a decision from Wenger is expected this week on whether he will run against incumbent Gianni Infantino.

Wenger, employed by FIFA since 2019, has so far made no public comments on the speculation. According to the Telegraph, the possible Macron support is viewed critically because parts of Africa hold a hostile attitude toward France, which could make Wenger's campaign in West Africa more difficult.

A duel between Infantino and Wenger would therefore represent a high‑stakes race at the FIFA‑Congress in Rabat on March 18. The candidates must register their candidacy by next Wednesday to take part in the congress.

Wenger continues to work as director for global football development at FIFA and cooperates daily with his Swiss counterpart in Zurich. In the summer he already criticised Infantino's failed investor plans for the World Cup.