Former Ghana national team coach Claude Le Roy has made strong comments against FIFA President Gianni Infantino, questioning his leadership and his impact on African football.
In a recent interview, the experienced French coach did not hold back his views. “What does Infantino know about anything? What does he know about life?” Le Roy asked. He also criticized Infantino’s relationship with former US President Donald Trump, calling it “sickening.”
Le Roy’s main concern is the future of football in Africa. He stated clearly that “Football in Africa is under serious attack.” He strongly opposes the proposed plan to change the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from being held every two years to every four years, calling the idea “very wrong.”
The former coach also took issue with Infantino’s conduct during the recent AFCON 2025 opening ceremony. “Look at the way Infantino was acting during the AFCON 2025 opening ceremony, like he owns the place,” Le Roy said. He questioned whether the FIFA President would behave similarly at a major European football event, implying a lack of respect.
Le Roy contrasted the current leadership with the past, praising former Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Issa Hayatou. He suggested that under Hayatou’s long tenure, such disputes and behavior would not have occurred.
These sharp criticisms from a respected figure like Le Roy, who has decades of experience in African football, highlight growing tensions between some in the African football community and FIFA’s current administration. The debate over the future calendar of AFCON is set to remain a major topic of discussion.