Images via Reuters
Sir Alex Ferguson made his feelings very clear about FIFA president Gianni Infantino after getting to know him 'very well', and it looks interesting now.
The Swiss leader of football's governing body has come under intense scrutiny recently, starting with his decision to award US President Donald Trump with the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize in 2025. However, things have only got worse for Infantino since.
His close relationship with Trump reared its head again as USMNT star Folarin Balogun's red card was suspended following a chat between the pair during the 2026 World Cup. He then proposed a plan that would see stakes in football's biggest competition sold to private investors.
Sir Alex Ferguson's Interesting Opinion of Gianni Infantino
Sir Alex Ferguson
His scheme was quickly met with strong backlash, which included UEFA nations threatening to boycott future World Cups if Infantino didn't back down. After more confederations followed suit by opposing his plans, the 56-year-old scrapped the idea.
Despite caving to public demands to back down, Infantino is still a long way from being safe as FIFA president. Wales and England have already withdrawn their support for him, while others are expected to follow suit.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino
FIFA President Gianni Infantino
With all the negativity leading the FIFA boss currently, it's interesting to look back on what legendary Manchester United manager Sir Alex thought about him. Speaking about the prospect of Infantino becoming FIFA president in 2016, the iconic Scot said (per Sky Sports):
A lot can happen in a decade and it would be interesting to see if Ferguson's opinion has changed at all. However, the glowing praise of Infantino, who Fergie claimed to know 'very well', shows why he got the job in the first place.
Infantino Thanked Ferguson For His Support
REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake
Infantino showed his gratitude for the kind words from the 13-time Premier League winner. "I'm grateful to Sir Alex for his support. It means a lot to me coming from one of football's most respected and accomplished managers," he said.
His next comments hammer home just how much has changed in the 10 years he's been in the role. Infantino continued: