Arsene Wenger: I discovered FIFA’s World Cup investment plan through the media

FIFA’s ambitious investment plan had to be abandoned after the organisation faced intense criticism over the controversial project, according to former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

Wenger, who now serves as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, admitted the plan could not continue amid the backlash, as the governing body moved to permanently end discussions surrounding the initiative.

The development has triggered internal concerns at FIFA, with secretary general Mattias Grafstrom also acknowledging the difficult period faced by the organisation and describing the events as a damaging episode.

Grafstrom, considered a close ally of FIFA president Gianni Infantino after becoming his chief of staff following the 2016 presidential election, expressed disappointment over the situation in an internal memo sent to staff.

The Swede, who was promoted to secretary general in 2024, said the controversy should not distract FIFA employees from their wider responsibility to football’s global community.

FIFA leadership addresses internal concerns

Grafstrom described the fallout as an unsettling moment for the institution but insisted FIFA would remain focused on its core objectives.

“A sad and reproachable series of events – which were thankfully concluded with the project permanently abandoned – for as much as we feel dismayed by them, should not overshadow this reality,” Grafstrom wrote.

“We have all been thrown into the middle of a turmoil, which is difficult to comprehend and accept.”

The FIFA secretary general urged staff members to maintain professionalism despite the pressure surrounding the organisation.

“I urge you to remain focused on what has always united us: serving football and serving our 211 member associations, hand in hand with all relevant stakeholders and in full compliance with the Fifa statutes and Fifa regulations.”

Grafstrom also attempted to reassure employees that they would not be affected by the wider political issues surrounding the controversy.

“I assure you that you as members of the administration, you will be defended and safeguarded from the political context we currently experience. You do not need to worry.”

Wenger’s admission highlights FIFA’s difficult moment

Wenger’s comments underline the challenges FIFA has faced in pushing through major investment initiatives while balancing scrutiny from stakeholders.

The Frenchman, who has been influential in FIFA’s football development strategy since joining the organisation in 2019, has often advocated for improving the global game through increased opportunities and investment.

However, the latest episode forced FIFA to abandon its plans, with concerns surrounding the project ultimately outweighing its intended benefits.

Grafstrom urged staff not to allow the controversy to define FIFA’s long-term mission.

“Individuals, unstable moments and unfortunate episodes come and go. The institution, its mission and its responsibility towards world football continue, and that is why we should always keep our professionalism, sense of perspective and composure.”

The abandoned investment plan represents another challenging moment for FIFA leadership as it continues efforts to expand football development worldwide while facing increased scrutiny over its decision-making processes.