German Football Association (DFB) President Bernd Neuendorf has dismissed it as an "obvious ploy" and called for the FIFA president to step down.

Bernd Neuendorf has questioned the credibility of "reformer" Infantino, suggesting that the FIFA president's recent statements are merely a tactic to retain power. Speaking to SID about Infantino's letter to FIFA members, the DFB president said: "I see Infantino's letter as an obvious ploy aimed at securing his re-election next year." In the letter, a beleaguered Infantino appeared conciliatory and expressed a willingness to pursue reforms.

Neuendorf stated: "Overall, it seems FIFA is now also realizing that change is essential." However, the FIFA Council member still insisted that Infantino must step down: "But Gianni Infantino is absolutely not the right person to lead the reform process. He has lost all credibility."

In addition to the DFB and other parties, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has particularly demanded Infantino's resignation and is preparing to file criminal charges against him in Switzerland. The background involves Infantino's role in a subsequently abandoned FIFA plan to sell media rights to FIFA events to private investors, including individuals close to then-US President Donald Trump. UEFA's goal is to force the Swiss national to abandon his re-election plans for next March.

The 56-year-old will not easily back down in the race for the presidency and still plans to participate in the election. His current display of willingness to reform is clearly an attempt to Garner support for himself. If Infantino runs, UEFA is almost certain to field an opponent. All signs point to CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani as a potential challenger to Infantino. The deadline for candidate nominations is November 18.

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