Arsene Wenger mentioned on Sunday that groups who targeted on soccer somewhat than “political demonstrations” fared higher within the opening spherical on the World Cup. The former Arsenal supervisor is now working for FIFA as its head of world soccer growth and made the comment unprompted throughout a press convention traits through the now-concluded group stage in Qatar.

“When you go to a World Cup you know you must not lose the first game,” mentioned the 73-year-old, saying groups with World Cup expertise resembling holders France gained their opening matches.

Wenger then added: “And the teams as well who were mentally ready, who had the mindset to focus on the competition and not on political demonstrations.”

Germany’s gamers lined their mouths for the workforce picture earlier than their opening match towards Japan in protest at FIFA’s refusal to permit the captains of seven European sides to put on rainbow-themed armbands.

The four-time champions misplaced the sport 2-1 and ultimately exited within the group levels. This World Cup has been overshadowed by a number of controversies each on and off the pitch, particularly with regards to homosexual rights.

Homosexuality is illegitimate in Qatar. Germany captain Manuel Neuer was among the many skippers who had deliberate to put on rainbow-themed armbands to advertise range, however deserted the initiative after FIFA threatened their groups with sporting sanctions.

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