The former Manchester United manager is the latest big name to offer his support to the Swiss in his bid to become president of the game’s world governing body
Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is the latest to back Gianni Infantino to become the new president of Fifa.
The Uefa general secretary’s campaign has gathered momentum in the past week, with Jose Mourinho and Fabio Capello among those to support the Swiss as he unveiled his reform plans at an event at Wembley.
Ferguson has now offered his backing to Infantino’s bid and has highlighted the skills which he believe will stand him in good stead for world football’s top job.
“In my role as ambassador to Uefa over the last few years I’ve got to know Gianni very well,” Ferguson said via a video statement. “I must say that all the help he’s given me has been – without question – really, really valuable to me.
“I think he’s got good professionalism, discipline, organisational ability and knowledge of the game and I wish him every success in his quest to be a Fifa president.”
Infantino published a reply thanking Ferguson for his support.
“I’m grateful to Sir Alex,” he said. “It means a lot to me coming from one of football’s most respected and accomplished managers.
“I’m also grateful to the growing number of Fifa’s Member Associations and Confederations that have now pledged their support to me. I am humbled by this and in their belief that I am the right candidate to help take Fifa forward into a new era of trust, respect and renewal.”
Russia pledged their support to Infantino’s campaign earlier on Wednesday as the 45-year-old appeared at the unveiling of the 2017 Confederations Cup logo in Moscow.
“We agree with most European countries and believe that Infantino is our candidate for Fifa presidency,” said sports minister Vitaly Mutko.
“He has a vast experience and works at Uefa, which is the most successful organisation at the moment. He will be able to unite the football family.”
