Africa-Press – Angola. Gelson Fernandes was announced yesterday as the new director of the Branch of Associated Associations (Africa) of FIFA. From the 1st of August, the former midfielder of the Swiss national team will be in charge of supervising and reinforcing the development of African Federations/members under the Forward Programme. Fernandes, 35 years old and of Cape Verdean origin, grew up in Switzerland and trained as an athlete at FC Sion, a club of which he is currently vice-president.
We are delighted that Gelson is part of the FIFA team,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Gelson has had a brilliant career as a player and his experience will help him to do his best in his new job. that Gelson is an excellent signing for FIFA and we welcome him to our team.”
During his career, Fernandes played for FC Sion, Manchester City, AS Saint-Étienne, Chievo, Leicester City, Udinese, Sporting CP, SC Freiburg, Stade Rennes and Eintracht Frankfurt. With the Swiss national team, he played 67 matches and scored twice.
Good Challenge
“It’s a great honor and I’m very proud to work for FIFA,” said Fernandes. I’m African. When an opportunity like this comes, you have an obligation to accept it, because it’s an opportunity to do something meaningful for Africa. I have to work for this continent and its football. This work that I will start in August will be closely linked to my roots. Dedicating myself body and soul to African football will be the best way to show how grateful I am to this continent”.
The former player is excited about his new role, although he is fully aware of the enormous task ahead. “Together with the member associations, we will seek solutions so that things continue to improve day by day. We all have to do our part. This continent has incredible potential. I am another one of Africa’s stories. Football can change lives and many goals can be achieved thanks to him. I am determined to do my best. It is a good challenge and it will be an honor to face it.”
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