Prominent footballers call for overhaul of FIFA under Infantino's leadership

Mikael Silvestre, serving on FIFA's Players' Voice Panel, launched a public appeal titled "Enough is Enough!" that was shared by Lucy Bronze, Emmanuel Petit and David James on social media. The statement targets FIFA president Gianni Infantino, accusing his administration of steering football away from its fundamental principles and of making major decisions without consulting players or fans. Central to the grievance is Infantino's plan to sell stakes in flagship competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors, a move the players say threatens the sport's integrity.

They called for a united push—from local clubs to the highest echelons—for structural change that would grant athletes and supporters a real say in football's governance. The criticism aligns with mounting pressure on Infantino, highlighted by UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin's threat to boycott FIFA events and demands for his resignation, as well as the withdrawal of backing by the football associations of England, Wales and Scotland. Former Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o defended Infantino, arguing his initiatives have benefited African football and smaller nations.