Fifa's proposal to sell commercial rights to the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors has ignited a firestorm of criticism, reminiscent of the backlash against the European Super League five years ago. The plan, estimated to generate an additional $20bn beyond the record $15bn from the 2026 World Cup, was announced on Tuesday and met with swift condemnation from football bodies worldwide.
Infantino's plan faces widespread opposition
Uefa accused Fifa of “attempting to sell the soul of football”, while UK prime minister Andy Burnham reminded Infantino that the World Cup “was never anyone’s to sell”. Concacaf voiced concerns, and the FA revealed it had been “completely unaware” of the plans. Infantino attempted to preempt the backlash with a 15-part Instagram post on Monday, accusing critics of spreading hate. However, European nations are reportedly ready to boycott future World Cups if the privatization proceeds.
Fans who previously tolerated high ticket prices and politicization of the World Cup may now mobilize against this move, similar to the protests that helped thwart the European Super League. The collective response could be forceful, aiming to keep the World Cup as a public asset rather than a private investment.
Arsenal's pursuit of Vinícius Júnior
Arsenal are reportedly targeting Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior to fill their left-winger void. The Brazilian has 228 goal contributions in 375 appearances for Real Madrid, including 22 goals last season. With Leandro Trossard's departure to Besiktas, Arsenal's left-wing options—Gabriel Martinelli and Trossard—combined for only seven league goals last season. Vinícius, in the final year of his contract, could elevate Arsenal's attack significantly.
Other targets include Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez, RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, and Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola. Arsenal have methodically strengthened their squad, signing Viktor Gyökeres as a striker and Martín Zubimendi as a midfielder, making left-winger the clear priority.
Liverpool's uncertain summer affects Andoni Iraola's rebuild
Liverpool's preseason has been marred by uncertainty, with manager Andoni Iraola describing the defensive depth as “very thin” after Joe Gomez's injury. The club has yet to replace Mohamed Salah or Andy Robertson, and questions linger over midfield and right-back positions. There is even speculation about Alisson's future.
Iraola aims to remold Liverpool, but the front office is in flux following Michael Edwards's exit as head of Fenway Sports Group's football department and reports that sporting director Richard Hughes is also leaving. Meanwhile, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is in talks to join a consortium seeking a 30% stake in Liverpool. Despite the off-field activity, the transfer market has been quiet, raising concerns about whether the uncertainty is hindering squad improvements.
