Representatives from four national players' unions have launched a new global organization in Madrid, the International Footballers' Association (AIF), designed to bolster footballers' rights and enhance dialogue with governing bodies.
David Aganzo, president of Spain’s Association of Footballers (AFE) and former head of FIFPRO, will lead the AIF. Players' unions from Brazil, Mexico, and Switzerland were also represented at the launch.
FIFPRO swiftly criticized the initiative, stating Aganzo was acting out of self-interest and aligning with groups allegedly linked to football governing bodies and former FIFPRO members. Aganzo rejected these claims, emphasizing a desire for dialogue rather than confrontation.
The AIF's formation follows strained relations within the football world, particularly concerning the expanded international match calendar and recent disputes between FIFA and FIFPRO over competition scheduling.
Aganzo asserted the AIF's new model aims to safeguard player rights and facilitate direct communication with international bodies. He indicated that 15 to 20 other unions are poised to join the initiative.