Gianni Infantino has reportedly offered Morocco the chance to stage the 2030 World Cup final as he looks for critical support. Under huge pressure, the FIFA president is said to have promised the North African nation hosting rights for the showpiece match while seeking a public endorsement amid intense criticism and increasing calls for his immediate resignation after his failed plan to sell stakes in the tournament to private investors collapsed.

Crisis talks in Rabat

Infantino is currently in Morocco for crisis discussions with FIFA officials as he battles to retain his position in the face of an unprecedented backlash.

As per a report by The Mirror, the under-fire president has assured Morocco that the 2030 World Cup final would be played at the new 115,000-capacity Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca instead of the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid.

That remarkable proposal is reportedly dependent on Morocco publicly backing him as he tries to ride out the continuing turmoil.

A crucial alliance

Morocco, which will co-host the 2030 tournament with Spain and Portugal, has been among Infantino's strongest and most dependable allies during his 10 years in charge of world football. Keeping that support has now become vital for the FIFA chief, who is reportedly worried by an obvious lack of backing from Saudi Arabia, the host nation for the 2034 edition.

Infantino's urgent political manoeuvring comes at the very moment his hugely controversial plan to sell stakes in the competition is falling apart completely, leaving his leadership badly weakened.

Figo and Wenger speak out

The alleged political deal-making has triggered sharp criticism and further fuelled an internal revolt, with senior executives publicly distancing themselves from the abandoned commercial plan. Luis Figo delivered a fierce attack on Infantino, calling for him to leave immediately. Figo said his behaviour was “the lowest, most deceitful and cravenly self-interested behaviour,” adding that Infantino had demeaned his office and "should go. Now."

At the same time, Arsene Wenger, FIFA’s chief of global football development, issued a statement making it clear that he had been entirely left out of the strategic plan. “The decision to withdraw the project was absolutely necessary and beyond question, because I firmly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our game with commitment, transparency, and integrity,” Wenger said.

What next for FIFA?

Infantino is facing a decisive few weeks as he tries to survive the biggest challenge of his presidency so far. UEFA and several member associations are expected to step up the pressure, which could lead to a vote of no confidence. It remains unclear whether Morocco will accept the reported offer of the final or side with the growing rebellion, but FIFA's immediate future looks deeply divided.