FIFA President Gianni Infantino participated in meetings where CAF presented its plans for the revamp of continental club competitions to the African federations and some of the continent’s top clubs. Mr Infantino is in Cameroon as the CAF Africa Cup of Nations draws to a close this weekend and took the opportunity to engage in dialogue with CAF, several African member associations and other stakeholders.

“We are here because you are all FIFA and we are all part of the same team,” said Mr Infantino, referring to the common objective of continued and sustained football development. “I’m very happy to be here to help to contribute, to assist and to share a little bit of our experience that we have accumulated over the years.” The FIFA President noted some of the aspects of the CAF project, including that the new approach to club competitions, namely the creation of an African Super League, will be enshrined in the institutional structure of African and global football. CAF also ensured it will include meritocratic principles such as promotion and relegation and will be inclusive, giving everyone the opportunity to participate.

In addition, the presented project assures the yield of extensive benefits for academies, women’s football and infrastructures across the continent, along with a strong component of solidarity. CAF reiterated that it will continue to consult all African stakeholders before finalising the details of a competition which could be launched in the short-term. The day concluded with the FIFA President attending the thrilling third-place match at the Africa Cup of Nations 2021, as hosts Cameroon triumphed on penalties after a 3-3 draw with Burkina Faso.