(foto: Getty Images)
The Argentine Football Association has publicly backed Gianni Infantino despite growing global criticism of the FIFA president following his abandoned commercial proposal.
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As Gianni Infantino faces the biggest political crisis of his presidency, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has emerged as one of the few national federations to publicly declare its support for the FIFA chief.
Infantino has come under intense pressure after plans to bring private investors into FIFA's flagship competitions became public, prompting widespread criticism from football associations, supporters and administrators around the world.
Growing international opposition
The proposal triggered a strong response from UEFA, whose leadership warned that European football could boycott FIFA competitions if the governing body continued with the project.
Several national associations have since distanced themselves from Infantino, while criticism has continued to grow following FIFA's decision to abandon the proposal.
The FIFA president later acknowledged the backlash, publicly admitting the project had been a mistake and apologizing for the controversy as he attempted to restore confidence in his leadership.
Argentina offers public backing
Despite the wave of criticism, the Argentine Football Association issued an official statement expressing full support for Infantino.
"Dear President, we want to support you and your associates for everything you have done over the past ten years. The development of football and competitions has been incredible since you took office, and that is why we publicly support you."
The statement also praised Infantino for acknowledging the controversy.
"You admitted your mistake regarding a project that faced significant public opposition, and it is important that you publicly recognized it was not the best idea. You have transformed FIFA in many ways, and that should not be forgotten. You have our support, and we believe FIFA is moving in the right direction for modern football."
A divisive decision
Argentina's position has sparked strong reactions among football supporters, many of whom believe Infantino's proposal seriously damaged trust in FIFA's leadership.
With the FIFA presidential election approaching, the coming months are expected to determine whether Infantino can rebuild enough international support to secure another term or whether opposition from football's governing bodies continues to grow.