El Kharja backs Infantino as European criticism of FIFA intensifies

Monday 10 August 2026 - 08:19

By: Azzat Manal

El Kharja backs Infantino as European criticism of FIFA intensifies

Former Morocco international and FIFA regional executive for the Middle East and North Africa, Houssine Kharja, has strongly defended FIFA President Gianni Infantino amid growing criticism from several figures within European football.

Speaking in an interview with the Moroccan football platform Soccer 212, Kharja argued that some of the opposition to Infantino’s policies goes beyond disagreements over the management of world football. In his view, part of the European reaction reflects concerns about the gradual redistribution of influence within the global game.

Kharja said Infantino’s approach had caused considerable unease in some European football circles, particularly as football’s traditional power structures face increasing competition from emerging regions.

One of the issues highlighted by the former Morocco captain is the growing importance of dual-national players. More footballers who have developed their careers in Europe are now choosing to represent the countries of their family origins, giving African national teams greater access to international talent.

Kharja pointed specifically to Morocco’s ability to attract players with dual nationality, arguing that the development has strengthened the competitiveness of African teams. He suggested that the emergence of these players could create tensions in European football environments that previously benefited from their development.

The debate also reflects the broader rise of African football. Morocco’s progress in recent years, alongside the growing competitiveness of other African national teams and clubs, has contributed to a changing balance of power within international football.

Kharja also addressed speculation about his own future in Moroccan football administration. He expressed clear support for Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, praising his leadership and describing his tenure as a major factor behind the progress of Moroccan football.

According to Kharja, Morocco’s achievements at both national-team and club level demonstrate the impact of the reforms and investments made in recent years. The country has established itself as an increasingly influential force in African football while gaining greater international recognition.

His comments come amid an ongoing debate over the future governance of world football and the distribution of influence between Europe and emerging football regions. As African, Asian and Middle Eastern football continue to develop, the traditional European dominance of the sport is facing an increasingly competitive international landscape.