Former Arsenal defender Lee Dixon has criticised Gianni Infantino’s leadership of FIFA and backed Arsene Wenger as his ideal replacement.
Dixon described himself as “certainly no fan” of Infantino and said he was deeply concerned by the FIFA president’s approach to the game.
The former England international was speaking in an interview with BestBettingSites, where he also questioned Infantino’s handling of several controversial issues surrounding the World Cup.
Dixon criticises Infantino’s FIFA leadership
Dixon did not hold back when asked whether he was worried about the future of the World Cup under Infantino.
“Everything connected to Infantino worries me. I couldn’t be more concerned,” Dixon said.
“What he stands for and how he tries to conduct the game is a concern – like making a mockery of things at the World Cup with hydration breaks and allowing situations like the Folarin Balogun eligibility situation to unfold.”
The former Arsenal defender went on to express his concern over Infantino remaining in charge of world football.
“It gives me shivers down my spine thinking about it. The fact that he hasn’t stepped down or left already is even more alarming, so I’m certainly no fan.”
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Wenger receives strong endorsement
When asked who could potentially replace Infantino, Dixon immediately identified his former Arsenal manager as his preferred candidate.
“Arsène is the most cerebral football mind I’ve ever encountered,” he said.
Dixon worked under Wenger during an iconic period in Arsenal’s history and believes the Frenchman possesses the intelligence and integrity required to lead FIFA.
“If you were going to put someone of genuine intellect and integrity in charge, he’d be my primary candidate.”
‘I couldn’t think of anyone better suited’
Dixon also praised Wenger’s ability to communicate his ideas and develop a broader vision for the sport.
“The depth of his thinking and how he articulates his vision would make him ideal,” Dixon added.
“I couldn’t think of anyone better suited.”
Wenger currently serves as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, having moved into the role after leaving Arsenal in 2018.
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