Houcine Kharja defends FIFA President Gianni Infantino against European criticism
Former Moroccan international and FIFA MENA region director, Houssine Kharja, has come to the defense of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who has faced criticism following the failure of the FFE project, which aimed to include private investors in the World Cup. Kharja accused Europe of panicking over the globalization of football, suggesting that European opposition stems from a fear of losing its historical monopoly on global football. He highlighted that the development of football, particularly in Africa, offers alternatives for dual nationals, which he claims disturbs European football. Kharja also stated that Infantino's policies deeply bother Europe. He further noted that a major point of contention for Europe is the increased freedom given to dual national players to choose their country of origin, a strategic advantage for Africa, especially Morocco. Kharja also praised Fouzi Lekja芒, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, calling him the "best president the Federation has ever known" for his work in advancing Moroccan football.