Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been appointed as Fifa's new chief of global football development, the world governing body has announced.
Wenger left Arsenal after 22 years as manager in the summer of 2018 and, after being linked with the vacant Bayern Munich post this month, the Frenchman has now accepted the role with Fifa having mulled over the decision for several months.
The 70-year-old will, according to Fifa, be 'the leading authority on technical matters' and as part of his new role will oversee IFAB, the body who pass amendments to the Laws of the Game and have been under intense scrutiny following changes to the handball law for this season.
Following his appointment, Wenger said: "I very much look forward to taking on this extremely important challenge, not only because I have always been interested in analysing football from a broader perspective but also because Fifa’s mission as world football’s governing body is truly global.
"I believe that the new Fifa we have seen emerging in recent years has the sport itself at the very heart of its objectives and is determined to develop the game in its many different components. I know I can contribute to this objective and will put all my energy into this."
Fifa president Gianni Infantino said: "Arsene Wenger’s profound knowledge and passion for the different aspects of our game sets him apart as one of the most respected personalities in football. I am delighted to welcome him to the team."
Wenger will be working across both men's and women's football in his new post.
