January 24 – The news of Michel Platini’s return to football administration appears to have been premature, at least in terms of a formal appointment.
A statement from the player’s union FIFPro said: “In the light of media reports linking Michel Platini to a role within our organization, FIFPRO would like to put on record that no such position has been discussed let alone agreed by the FIFPRO board.”
The former UEFA president had been reported as taking a role as the personal advisor of FIFPro president Philippe Piat after having served a four-year ban from the game. That may still be the case though it may not yet be the formally appointed role originally believed.
Piat was quoted as saying: “Taking into account his aura, his personal aptitudes, knowledge and functions he has occupied, he is someone important who will be heard at the highest level.”
In December 2015, Platini was suspend from “any activity linked to football” for eight years for receiving €1.84 million from FIFA, sanctioned by then president of FIFA, Sepp Blatter, for work carried out by Platini between 1999 and 2002. That work was then deemed an unjustified payment and Platini and Blatter were banned.
On appeal, Platini suspension was reduced to six years and later to four by the Arbitration Court of Sport (CAS).
Platini has always maintained his innocence and said he has no intention of retiring and that he would return to football at the highest levels. Though just not yet.
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