LaLiga President Accuses Infantino of 'Destroying' Football

LaLiga president Javier Tebas has stated that Gianni Infantino's tenure as FIFA chief should end, alleging that the FIFA president is "destroying the very essence" of football. This strong condemnation follows mounting pressure on Infantino due to his abandoned proposal for private investment in FIFA competitions.

Infantino has faced intense scrutiny after withdrawing plans to establish a commercial entity that would have enabled private investors to acquire stakes in FIFA events, including the World Cup. Although Infantino issued an apology to member associations this week regarding the handling of the proposal, criticism has escalated, with bodies like UEFA and the Football Association demanding his resignation.

In an interview with the French newspaper Le Monde, Tebas expressed his belief that Infantino's leadership has run its course. "For me, Gianni Infantino’s time has long since passed," Tebas remarked. He clarified that this view isn't solely based on recent events, noting he has observed Infantino's management style for an extended period, even as others are only now recognizing it.

"Gianni Infantino is not someone who contributes to the growth of football. On the contrary, his projects are destroying the very essence of the sport: the national leagues," Tebas stated. He emphasized that football's reach extends beyond an elite group, concluding, "For me, the Infantino era is over."

Tebas further argued that merely replacing Infantino would be insufficient, asserting the need for comprehensive reform within FIFA. "What remains to be seen is when that will take effect and how the succession will unfold," he added. "I hope it is not just a matter of swapping out some people for others, but of a genuine overhaul."

Turbulent Week Continues for Infantino

These criticisms come during a challenging week for Infantino. UEFA confirmed a departure payment was made to a former female employee who reportedly had a relationship with him during his time as UEFA general secretary; Infantino has denied these allegations.

Despite FIFA abandoning its investment plans, UEFA has reiterated its threat to boycott future World Cups should similar proposals be reintroduced.

Tebas views the current controversy as indicative of broader governance problems within the sport. "What is happening does not surprise me," he commented. "What does surprise me is the reaction of many people who remained silent for years."

"This episode is only the tip of the iceberg of what has been going on within an institution, FIFA, but also more broadly in football, where there are no real governance policies," Tebas continued. "And the problem is not limited to one person; it is about an entire system. The old system can persist even when the people change. Let’s hope things truly change, that a new leader arrives, and that new governance is established at FIFA."