Fifa secretary basic Mattias Grafstrom joined the criticism of the plan, writing in an inside memo to workers that the final week had been “difficult to comprehend and accept”.
Grafstrom is seen as an in depth ally of Infantino, turning into Fifa’s chief of workers after the Swiss was elected president in 2016. The Swede was evelated to secretary basic, probably the most highly effective positions in Fifa, in 2024.
“A sad and reproachable series of events – which were thankfully concluded with the project permanently abandoned – for as much as we feel dismayed by them, should not overshadow this reality,” Grafstrom wrote.
“We have all been thrown into the middle of a turmoil, which is difficult to comprehend and accept.
“I urge you to stay targeted on what has at all times united us: serving soccer and serving our 211 member associations, hand in hand with all related stakeholders and in full compliance with the Fifa statutes and Fifa laws.
“I assure you that you as members of the administration, you will be defended and safeguarded from the political context we currently experience. You do not need to worry.
“Individuals, unstable moments and unlucky episodes come and go. The establishment, its mission and its duty in the direction of world soccer proceed, and that’s the reason we should always at all times maintain our professionalism, sense of perspective and composure.”
Fifa has been approached for remark.
