British Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed on Sunday that Gianni Infantino is not suitable to lead FIFA, the global organization governing soccer. His remarks came as a response to the discontinued proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.

Burnham stated, “I do not believe that he is the right man to lead football forward on the world stage.” He emphasized that the proposed plan was offensive to many in the football community worldwide and should not be dismissed without acknowledgment.

European soccer’s governing body, UEFA, recently announced a loss of confidence in FIFA’s leadership. This action might lead to potential challenges to Infantino’s presidency. FIFA’s leadership received criticism as the organization was accused by CONCACAF of prioritizing commercial interests over football.

Infantino had to retreat from his contentious plan after UEFA’s 55-member nations decided to boycott World Cup events and other FIFA competitions. In addition, both CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation expressed opposition to the proposal.

Despite Infantino’s concession, UEFA has committed to collaborating with other governing bodies to ensure that such plans do not reoccur. “No option should be off the table,” stated UEFA, signaling openness to consider all possibilities to prevent future issues.

While some associations, including Qatar, host of the 2022 World Cup, have supported Infantino, Burnham’s comments reflect the discontent his plans have aroused. The FIFA presidential election is set for March in Rabat, Morocco, with the candidate deadline on November 18, four months before the election.

For updates, follow James Robson on his social media and visit the AP soccer hub for more soccer news.