DFB managing director Rettig again criticized FIFA President Infantino in an interview with Stern magazine.

Rettig stated: "This is extremely inappropriate. What is being sold here is a priceless intangible asset." Furthermore, Rettig accused Infantino of now surrounding himself with advisors from the financial and economic sectors, who do not understand football.

However, Rettig spoke highly of UEFA President Ceferin. The Slovenian "stood firm" in resisting Infantino's plans, thereby preventing long-term damage to football. Rettig also believes that it was not only UEFA's criticism that made Infantino back down.

Rettig said: "I don't think he would have compromised if UEFA had been the only one to speak out." It wasn't until other continental federations also publicly opposed the plan that it became clear "he had lost this battle."

Rettig calls for a challenger in 2027

For Rettig, the loss of trust is so deep that he explicitly hopes for a candidate to challenge Infantino in the 2027 FIFA election.

Rettig believes: "The reset button must be pressed. A different culture is needed. Because trust is the hardest currency."

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