Donald Trump Reportedly Backs FIFA President Gianni Infantino for UN Secretary-General Role

US President Donald Trump wants FIFA president Gianni Infantino to become the next secretary-general of the United Nations, according to a report by the New York Post. The report said Trump was impressed by Infantino's role in organising the FIFA World Cup and believes the Swiss official has the ability to unite people across the world.

According to the report, Trump believes Infantino would be a strong candidate to replace current UN secretary-general António Guterres, whose term ends in December. A source close to Trump told the New York Post: "He is respected by everyone around the world, and recognizes he has a special ability to bring people together." However, it is still unclear whether Infantino is interested in the position or whether Trump has discussed the proposal with him. To become the next UN secretary-general, a candidate must first receive the backing of the 15-member UN Security Council, where the five permanent members have veto power, before being approved by the UN General Assembly.

The report said Infantino and Trump developed a close relationship while working together during this year's FIFA World Cup. Infantino reportedly made special efforts to include Trump during the tournament and had earlier presented him with FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize in December.

Trump and Infantino were also in the spotlight during the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. Trump arrived at the stadium aboard Marine One and watched the match from a VIP suite alongside Infantino. According to The Guardian, he received scattered boos when he appeared on the stadium's giant screens before kick-off. The reaction became louder after the match when Trump and Infantino walked onto the field for the trophy presentation following Spain's 1-0 victory. The atmosphere turned more awkward when Trump remained on the podium after handing over the trophy, appearing to join Spain's celebrations before eventually leaving the stage.

Trump's close relationship with Infantino also came under scrutiny earlier in the tournament after USA forward Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension for a red card was lifted ahead of the Round of 16 clash against Belgium.