FIFA has named Gelson Fernandes as Director Member Associations Africa. The Former Swiss international midfielder will take up the new job on 1 August 2022, with obligation regarding directing services to reinforce the improvement of the African member associations through the Forward Program.
The 35-year-old with Cabo Verdean background experienced childhood in Switzerland and fostered his footballing abilities at FC Sion, where he at present holds the foothold as Vice President.
“We are delighted to have Gelson joining the FIFA team,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Gelson had a fantastic career as a footballer, and the experience he gained will be important to carry out his tasks to the best of his ability. I have no doubt that Gelson will do some excellent work for us, and we welcome him to our team.”
During his profession, Fernandes played for FC Sion, Manchester City, AS Saint-Étienne, Chievo, Leicester City, Udinese, Sporting CP, SC Freiburg, Stade Rennes and Eintracht Frankfurt.
He also won 67 caps for Switzerland and scored two times, importantly scoring the first goal of the game as Switzerland defeated possible title holders Spain 1-0 at the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa.
Gelson Fernandes’ statement:
“It’s a big honour and I’m very proud to join FIFA,” said Fernandes. “I am an African and if you get an offer like this, you must do it because it is a way of giving something back to Africa as an African. I see it as my obligation to work for Africa and its football. This mission that I will start in August includes all aspects around my roots and this continent, showing my gratitude and support and giving my all for African football,” he said.
The 35-year-old is looking forward to his new role and is under no deceptions about the work that lies in front of him.
He went on by saying:
“Together with the member associations, we will look for solutions to constantly improve the situation. Everybody has to be involved. This continent has incredible potential. I come from this continent; I am one of the many stories of this continent. Football can change the lives of so many people. Football can do so much, it has a lot of power. I will give everything with all my heart. It’s a great challenge and one that I am proud to accept.”
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