Speaking on talkSPORT's White & Jordan show on 12/10, Petit asserted that Wenger has the knowledge, experience, and understanding of FIFA's operations to bring about change should he take leadership of the organization.

"I have great respect for Arsene from his time as a coach, and we share a long-standing relationship", Petit stated. "He frequently challenged UEFA and FIFA to safeguard the interests of both clubs and players during his tenure at Arsenal".

FIFA's director of global football development, Arsene Wenger, watches the PSG versus Arsenal match in the UEFA Champions League 2025-2026 final, at Puskas Arena, Hungary on 30/5. Photo: Reuters

Petit played under Wenger at Monaco from 1988-1994 and Arsenal from 1997-2000. The 56-year-old former midfielder suggested Wenger's move to FIFA after leaving Arsenal could be a long-term strategy to reach the organization's top position. Wenger left Arsenal in 2018, concluding nearly 22 years of managing the London club. A year later, he joined FIFA as director of global football development, responsible for initiatives to develop the sport internationally. "If you want to change something in football, you need to be in the highest position, with the power to do it", the former France international stated.

Petit believes Wenger's tenure at FIFA has provided him with a clear understanding of the organization's structure, influential figures, and decision-making processes. This knowledge would be advantageous if Wenger were to pursue the FIFA presidency.

However, the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 winner does not fully endorse Wenger's past proposals. One controversial initiative by the former French coach was to hold the World Cup every two years, departing from the current four-year cycle. Petit suggested that the ideas Wenger put forth upon joining FIFA might not represent his complete vision. Despite his reservations, the 56-year-old former midfielder still expressed his desire for Wenger to replace Infantino. "I hope it happens, but I'm neither a child nor naive. I know the system will not change", Petit said. "However, I still want Wenger to replace Infantino. His football experience is an advantage over the current FIFA President".

Infantino is expected to seek re-election at the 77th FIFA Congress, held in Rabat, Morocco in March 2027. He is seeking support for his next term as some national football federations have withdrawn their backing, including The Football Association (FA). This withdrawal followed the unsuccessful FIFA Forward Enterprise plan, an initiative that aimed at selling private equity stakes in competitions, such as the World Cup.

Current FIFA President Gianni Infantino attends and presents the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 trophy at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia on the evening of 5/10. Photo: Duc Dong

Ramon Vega, a former Tottenham defender, is currently the only other confirmed candidate in the race. Victor Montagliani, President of the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF), is also considering challenging Infantino.

Despite Petit's endorsement, Simon Jordan, former Crystal Palace chairman, does not believe Wenger will enter the race. According to Jordan, leaving his current position to compete for the FIFA Presidency could cause Wenger to lose influence over the football development activities he currently oversees. Jordan believes Wenger's role at FIFA is tied to developing the next generation of players and how funds are distributed to member federations. If he enters the power struggle, the former Arsenal coach might trade influence in these areas without a guaranteed chance of securing the top position.

"I don't think Infantino will leave anytime soon. If he hasn't been defeated by now, I don't think it will happen before February", Jordan commented. When Petit asked if Wenger had a chance to win, Jordan replied that he didn't think the former Arsenal coach would run.

According to the regulations outlined for the election, candidates must submit their nomination documents by 18/11 and receive endorsement from at least five FIFA member federations. Wenger, 76, won three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups with Arsenal. He is renowned for his philosophy of player development, innovative coaching methods, and team building.

Hoang An (according to talkSPORT)