In the face of continued criticism of his leadership at FIFA, Gianni Infantino posted on social media Thursday that he is ready to embrace discussions with member nations about reforms in the organization.
Infantino has been under fire from a number of top national federations and governing bodies around the world, including UEFA in Europe and CONCACAF, which includes the United States, Canada and Mexico.
FIFA’s president since February of 2016, Infantino caught the ire of member nations with a now-abandoned plan to sell 20% of FIFA’s commercial rights in the World Cup to private investors. The deal, which could have been worth a reported $4.2 billion, led to UEFA and CONCACAF, among others, to call for Infantino’s replacement.
The latest development came last week when England’s Football Association asked Infantino to release all documents related to his plan to bring on private investors for the World Cup, as well as the controversial decision to overturn United States striker Folarin Balogun’s red card during this summer’s tournament.
Currently at the Arabian Gulf Cup tournament in Saudi Arabia, Infantino praised the host nation and referenced a letter he sent to the FIFA council, as well as member nations, that proposed a discussion on reforms.
Writing on Instagram that he has received “positive messages” in reaction to the letter, Infantino stressed the need for open communication.
“We have a FIFA Council meeting next month, so we will continue to have a dialogue on these important matters,” he posted, in part. “There must be a culture of dialogue, of listening to each other and respecting one another.”
Infantino addressed potential cynics to his desire to discuss reforms.
“This is not about generating positive headlines, it is about what is right for the game,” Infantino wrote. “I have never been more determined and committed in doing that. FIFA is always engaged. I am always engaged and want to hear how we can continue to grow football for the benefit of everybody, everywhere.”
–Field Level Media
