FIFA: The EFC also fails to understand Gianni Infantino's decision

Another reaction has emerged following the surprise decision by Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA. The European Football Clubs Association (EFC), which now represents over 850 clubs after succeeding the ECA, has voiced its concerns regarding the FIFA Forward Enterprise project.

In an official statement, the EFC expressed its “deep concern” after “the sudden and unilateral media communications and announcement from FIFA regarding a potential new corporate structure for the commercialization of certain football competitions.” The organization particularly highlights a lack of dialogue with the stakeholders involved, especially since clubs play a central role in the ecosystem of international competitions.

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“As an institution representing more than 850 football clubs – whose member clubs, players, and communities are key stakeholders in global football, including FIFA competitions and all international club tournaments – it would be entirely appropriate for the EFC to be fully consulted on a proposal of this magnitude. The EFC learned of this proposal in the same way as most global football stakeholders: with no prior warning and through the media,” the organization stated.

While reiterating its willingness to work with FIFA, UEFA, the confederations, national associations, leagues, players, and fans, the EFC believes that such a far-reaching project cannot be decided without thorough consultation. “The EFC is constantly striving to collaborate with and support all stakeholders: FIFA, UEFA and all confederations, national associations, leagues, players’ and supporters’ associations. In this regard, we stress the need for calm and thorough consultation on all matters affecting the football ecosystem, as well as the establishment of more rigorous and transparent governance processes to ensure the sustainability of the game,” the statement concluded.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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