Fifa Plans Risk Making Women's Football 'First Casualties,' Warns Anita Asante

Former England international Anita Asante has voiced concerns that women's football may become the "first casualties" of Fifa president Gianni Infantino's latest plans. The warning highlights growing unease within the sport about the potential negative impact of Fifa's proposed changes on the women's game.

Gianni Infantino, who has been at the helm of world football's governing body since 2016, is known for ambitious reforms aimed at expanding and reshaping the global football calendar and competitions. However, these plans have drawn criticism from various quarters, including prominent figures in women's football like Asante.

Anita Asante, a former England defender with extensive experience in both domestic and international women's football, has spoken out against the implications of Fifa's proposals. She suggests that the restructuring and scheduling changes could disproportionately affect the development and visibility of the women's game, potentially sidelining it in favor of the men's competitions.

This development comes at a crucial time for women's football, which has been experiencing rapid growth in popularity, investment, and media coverage worldwide. The sport has made significant strides in recent years, with increasing attendance figures, sponsorship deals, and broadcast deals enhancing its profile.

Should Fifa proceed with the proposed reforms without adequate consideration for the women's game, there is a real risk that these gains could be undermined. The scheduling conflicts, resource allocation, and prioritization of men's tournaments may lead to reduced opportunities and exposure for female players and clubs.

Looking ahead, stakeholders in women's football will likely push for more inclusive dialogue with Fifa to ensure that future plans protect and promote the women's game rather than hinder its progress. The next major women's international tournaments and the evolving club calendar will serve as key indicators of how these issues are addressed.

For more details on this developing story, visit the original report on BBC Sport.