The Croatian national team legend has spoken out openly: "Čeferin is the one who loves football, and I don't respect Infantino."

N1 HrvatskaIndependentCenterNov 3

Former Croatia captain and Shakhtar Donetsk sports director Darijo Srna has sharply criticized FIFA president Gianni Infantino, stating he holds no respect for him or the organization due to their handling of the war in Ukraine. In an interview with British outlet talkSPORT, Srna accused FIFA of neglecting Ukrainian clubs operating under difficult wartime conditions and described the federation primarily as a business entity. He contrasted Infantino’s approach with that of UEFA president Alexander Ceferin, whom he credits with protecting club interests and promoting accessible football. Srna also opposed the return of Russian clubs to European competitions, arguing it is impossible while Ceferin leads UEFA and citing potential security chaos if teams like Zenit played against European opponents such as Chelsea.

Bias read (Center): The article neutrally reports direct quotes from a specific individual regarding football governance and geopolitical conflicts within the sport, without adding editorial commentary or taking a stance on the validity of his claims.

Jutarnji listIndependentProgressiveNov 2

Former Croatia captain Darijo Srna gave an interview to British outlet TalkSport ahead of a Champions League match between Shakhtar Donetsk and Sporting Lisbon. He criticized FIFA President Gianni Infantino, stating he has no respect for him or the organization because they failed to protect Ukrainian clubs during the war. In contrast, Srna praised UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin for loving football and protecting clubs rather than selling the sport to billionaires. Srna argued that Russian clubs should not return to European competitions while the war in Ukraine continues, claiming such a move would cause chaos if teams like Zenit played against European giants. The article notes that Srna currently serves as a sports director at Shakhtar, where he is considered a legend due to his extensive playing career there.

Bias read (Progressive): The article highlights comments supporting anti-war sanctions and criticizing global governance structures, aligning with progressive internationalist views common among left-leaning commentators.