Arsene Wenger gets a new job

Arsene Wenger unveiled by FIFA as its new Chief of Global football Development [Courtesy]

World football governing body FIFA on Wednesday, November 13 unveiled former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger as its new Chief of Global Football Development.

Wenger, who was welcomed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino to the body’s headquarter’s in Zurich, will take charge of overseeing the development and growth of football, for both men and women around the world.

Wenger will also be in charge of technical matters in his capacity as FIFA’s Technical Study Group Chairman as well as a member of the Football and Technical Advisory Panels.

He will be involved in the review and decision-making process of any changes that could be made to the game.

“Leaning on a highly distinguished coaching career, Wenger’s role will include a particular focus on coach education, while he will also offer invaluable contributions to an executive programme – currently in its inception phase – tailored to encourage former professional players to enter management and which will support them through the post-career transition and bridge the gap between managerial and technical positions in football,” said FIFA on their website.

"I very much look forward to taking on this extremely important challenge, not only because I have always been interested in analysing football from a broader perspective but also because FIFA’s mission as world football’s governing body is truly global. I believe that the new FIFA we have seen emerging in recent years has the sport itself at the very heart of its objectives and is determined to develop the game in its many different components. I know I can contribute to this objective and will put all my energy into this," said an elated Wenger.

Infantino lauded Wenger’s experience in the game, saying his vast knowledge and passion for football made him the right candidate for the job.

"Arsene Wenger’s profound knowledge and passion for the different aspects of our game sets him apart as one of the most respected personalities in football. I am delighted to welcome him to the team. Since I arrived at FIFA, we have placed football at the centre of our mission, striving to learn from those who know the sport inside out. Arsene is someone who, with his strategic vision, competence and hard work, has dedicated his life to football. His arrival is just another example of how we keep strengthening our purpose to bring FIFA back to football and football back to FIFA," said Infantino.