Nasser Al-Khelaifi responds to FIFA presidency speculation after Paris Saint-Germain triumph

Nasser Al-Khelaifi says he has no intention of leaving his role as president of Paris Saint-Germain, despite growing speculation that he could stand to succeed Gianni Infantino as FIFA president.

Al-Khelaifi was asked about the possibility of replacing the Swiss administrator after Paris Saint-Germain defeated Aston Villa 2-1 to win the European Super Cup on Wednesday evening. Speaking in the mixed zone after the match, he gave a clear response to recent reports, according to French broadcaster RMC.

“I am very happy to be president of Paris Saint-Germain, and happy to continue in this role,” said Al-Khelaifi.

His comments come as FIFA faces a period of uncertainty, with Infantino under increasing criticism. There has also been controversy surrounding plans to establish and sell a commercial company linked to FIFA, known as “FFE”, although that proposal was ultimately abandoned.

As pressure on Infantino has grown, Al-Khelaifi’s name has emerged as one of the leading potential candidates to become FIFA president at the election scheduled for March 2027. He is understood to have support in some European football circles, which has contributed to the speculation over whether he could enter the race.

However, his latest remarks suggest that he is not currently considering a bid for the FIFA presidency. Instead, Al-Khelaifi has reaffirmed his commitment to remaining in charge of the Paris-based club.

Meeting with UEFA president

Al-Khelaifi had met UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin earlier in the day before sitting alongside him during Paris Saint-Germain’s match against Aston Villa.

Reports said their informal discussions covered several issues, including the situation within FIFA following the latest developments involving Infantino. They also reportedly discussed the next edition of the Club World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in 2029.

UEFA has maintained a cautious position on several of FIFA’s policies during Infantino’s time in office. That has led to suggestions that some figures may want to encourage Al-Khelaifi to challenge for the leadership of world football’s governing body.

For now, though, Al-Khelaifi’s public position is that his priority remains Paris Saint-Germain.

The club is enjoying the most successful period in its history under his leadership. Its victory over Aston Villa marked what was described as Paris Saint-Germain’s fourth consecutive continental title, made up of two UEFA Champions League trophies and two European Super Cup successes.

The latest achievement came after a dramatic encounter in which Paris Saint-Germain secured a 2-1 win over Aston Villa. Al-Khelaifi’s comments followed the trophy presentation, providing his first direct response to reports linking him with the FIFA presidency.