Leverkusen CEO Carro: 'We're fighting against Infantino'

Bayer Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro has taken a bold stance against FIFA President Gianni Infantino, criticizing the global football body's recent proposals that he believes undermine the interests of club football. In a candid interview, Carro emphasized the growing concerns among European clubs about the direction in which FIFA is heading under Infantino's leadership.

Growing Tensions Between Clubs and FIFA

The heart of the matter lies in the proposed expansion of international competitions, which Carro argues places undue strain on players and dilutes the quality of club competitions. With the increasingly congested fixture schedule, Carro insists that the primary concern of clubs like Bayer Leverkusen is the well-being of their players and the integrity of domestic leagues.

Carro stated, "We're fighting against Infantino's plans because they don't take into account the interests of the clubs, who are the ones developing players and investing in their growth. The current proposals seem to prioritize commercial interests over the health and performance of players."

Support from Other European Clubs

Leverkusen is not alone in this battle. Several other top European clubs have echoed Carro's sentiments, calling for a more balanced approach to international fixtures. The European Club Association (ECA) has been particularly vocal, urging FIFA to engage in meaningful dialogue with clubs to address these concerns.

• Fixture Congestion: The expansion of international tournaments could lead to player burnout, affecting performances at the club level.
• Player Welfare: With the growing number of mandatory international matches, clubs are worried about increased injury risks.
• Commercial vs. Sporting Interests: There is a growing sentiment that FIFA's decisions are driven more by revenue generation than by the sport's holistic growth.

Looking Ahead

As the debate continues, Carro and his counterparts are calling for a reevaluation of the international football calendar. They are advocating for a solution that maintains the competitive edge of club competitions while ensuring player welfare is not compromised.

The coming months will be crucial as FIFA engages with stakeholders to find a common ground. For now, Carro remains steadfast, asserting that the clubs will continue to fight for a fairer, more sustainable future for football.