FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development and legendary former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has arrived in Baku ahead of the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival.
As reported by İdman.Biz, the French football expert will attend the tournament, which will take place in the Azerbaijani capital from October 24 to 30.
Former FIFA referee and UEFA international referee observer Asim Khudiyev revealed that he met Wenger on October 22 before boarding a flight from Istanbul to Baku. Khudiyev also shared a commemorative photograph with the renowned French coach.
Wenger managed Arsenal from 1996 to 2018, transforming the London club into one of England's leading football teams. During his 22-year tenure, he guided the Gunners to three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups, including the historic unbeaten league campaign of the 2003/04 season.
Since leaving Arsenal, Wenger has taken on a key role at FIFA, focusing on the global development of football, youth competitions and opportunities for emerging talent.
The 76-year-old Frenchman also played an important role in developing the concept of FIFA's new U-15 tournament, which aims to provide young footballers from around the world with valuable international experience.
The first-ever FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival will begin in Baku on October 24 and conclude on October 30.
Azerbaijan's national team will open its campaign against Timor-Leste on October 24 at 19:30 local time at Baku Crystal Hall.
The tournament marks another significant milestone for Azerbaijan as the country hosts a major international youth football event under FIFA's auspices.
