E243: “Company Man” - Arsène Wenger, Infantino’s FIFA Crisis & Arsenal’s App Fiasco (Week in Football)

The Week in Football begins with the escalating crisis surrounding Gianni Infantino, as football associations withdraw their support and the threat of a World Cup boycott places the FIFA president’s position under increasing pressure.The discussion turns to Arsène Wenger after the former Arsenal manager distances himself from FIFA’s controversial investment plans. The hosts examine Wenger’s carefully constructed statement, his role within the organisation and whether Arsenal supporters projected principles onto him that were always more conditional than they appeared. Further questions follow over money promised to World Cup host cities and the wider culture operating within FIFA.The pod also pays tribute to Franco Baresi, reflecting on the AC Milan and Italy legend, the historic defence he led and the enduring stature of one of football’s greatest defenders.Elsewhere, Eddie Howe leaves Newcastle following a summer of major departures and a clear change in the club’s direction. The hosts assess his legacy, Newcastle’s youth-led rebuild and what success under a new manager could mean for how Howe’s tenure is remembered. Kazuyoshi Miura’s record-breaking goal at 59 then sparks a conversation about longevity, Cristiano Ronaldo and knowing when—or whether—to stop playing.Finally, Arsenal’s failed pre-season stream and malfunctioning app open a wider debate about the club’s relationship with its supporters, from paid friendlies and constant merchandise releases to ticket prices, hospitality and the growing feeling that fan loyalty is being treated as another revenue opportunity.Chapters:(00:00) - Arteta’s Non-Negotiables & Intro(00:54) - Infantino’s FIFA Crisis Deepens(03:28) - Arsène Wenger Breaks His Silence(10:19) - FIFA’s Missing World Cup Payments(13:45) - Remembering Franco Baresi(18:29) - Eddie Howe Leaves Newcastle(21:37) - Assessing Eddie Howe’s Legacy(23:22) - Kazuyoshi Miura Scores at 59(28:54) - Arsenal’s Pre-Season Streaming Fiasco(30:56) - Was Arsenal’s New Website Vibe-Coded?(32:18) - Are Arsenal Milking Their Supporters?(35:45) - Kits, Ticket Prices & More Hospitality(38:55) - Outro & Upcoming Episodes