A coalition of current and former international footballers has publicly challenged FIFA President Gianni Infantino, criticising the direction of world football’s governing body and calling for major structural reforms at its highest levels.
The statement, titled “Enough is Enough!”, was shared on X by former Manchester United and France defender Mikael Silvestre, who serves on FIFA’s Players’ Voice Panel.
The intervention has attracted support from prominent football figures, including England defender Lucy Bronze, 1998 World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit and former England goalkeeper David James.
Players oppose FIFA’s commercial direction
The coordinated action followed Infantino’s recently floated proposal to sell equity stakes in FIFA-owned competitions, including the World Cup, to private investment firms.
The players said they shared the concerns of millions of football supporters regarding the proposed commercial direction of the sport.
The group argued that decisions affecting football should not be driven solely by financial considerations without sufficient consultation with players and fans.
Criticism of FIFA leadership
In their statement, the players expressed dissatisfaction with what they described as a departure from the fundamental values of football under Infantino’s leadership.
“We have watched the game we love drift away from its core values under FIFA’s current leadership,” the statement read.
They also criticised what they described as inadequate consultation with players over major decisions affecting the sport.
“For too long we’ve seen major decisions taken without players being consulted or considered, and without any regard for the fans who sustain the sport,” the statement added.
Calls for greater player involvement
Although the statement did not explicitly demand Infantino’s resignation, the players made clear their belief that significant changes are required within FIFA’s leadership and decision-making structures.
The coalition argued that players, who are directly affected by changes to competition formats and match schedules, should have a stronger voice in determining the future of the sport.
Their intervention adds to growing debate over FIFA’s commercial strategy, governance and the increasing demands being placed on professional footballers.
Concerns ahead of major FIFA decisions
The challenge comes as football continues to face debates over congested match calendars, player workload and the commercial expansion of major competitions.
The 2026 World Cup, which features an expanded 48-team format, has also intensified discussions about the growing demands on players and the future organisation of international football.
The latest declaration therefore signals increasing unease among sections of the playing community over the direction of the sport.
FIFA had not issued an official response to the players’ statement at the time of publication.
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