Arsene Wenger returns as FIFA’s chief of global football development

Frenchman will oversee IFAB, coaching programs and technical analysis at tournaments

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is returning to the game as FIFA’s new chief of global football development.

The former Arsenal manager accepted FIFA’s offer more than two months after it was first reported, and one week after being approach by Bayern Munich about the German champions vacant head coach job.

The 70-year-old Frenchman effectively replaces Marco van Basten who was FIFA technical director until October 2018.

“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,” Wenger said on his appointment.

“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.”

Wenger has worked as an analyst for broadcasters since leaving Arsenal last year after 22 seasons.

He led the north London side to three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups, and was beaten finalist in the 2006 Champions League and 2000 UEFA Cup.